State Department Releases New Travel Advisory for Israel
The United States also cautioned against traveling to Lebanon due to the escalating tensions with Israel.
The U.S. Department of State has issued an updated advisory warning Americans against traveling to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza citing the ongoing violence in the region. The advisory also mentioned that the consulate may not be able to provide assistance in case the security situation deteriorates.
According to the department, terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists, and violent extremists are actively planning attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. They may target tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and government facilities without warning. The advisory also highlighted the unpredictable nature of violence occurring in these areas.
The U.S. government stated that it cannot provide routine or emergency consular services to Americans in Gaza as U.S. employees are not allowed to travel to the region. The Israeli military is engaged in extensive military operations against Hamas in Gaza, making the security situation extremely hazardous and unstable.
The pedestrian crossing between Israel and Gaza remains closed since October 7, 2023. Additionally, the pedestrian crossing between Gaza and Egypt may close without notice. The Gaza region is experiencing disruptions in internet and telecommunication services, making it difficult for people to stay informed about the current circumstances.
The department advised Americans intending to travel to Gaza to be prepared for a potentially prolonged stay as pedestrian crossings may close at any time. It suggested having a plan for entering and exiting Gaza that does not rely on assistance from U.S. agencies.
Individuals taking medication should ensure they have enough supply for at least five days and ideally two weeks beyond their scheduled trip. It is also recommended to have a copy of their prescriptions readily available.
Flight Resumption, Other Travel Advisories
Following the attack in Israel on October 7, 2023, several flights from the United States were canceled.
Delta’s decision was based on a comprehensive security risk assessment, with continued monitoring of the situation in Israel in collaboration with government and private partners. United Airlines is also operating flights to Tel Aviv from various locations such as Chicago, San Francisco, and New York.
The advisory highlighted that countries like Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen frequently launch attacks on Israel using drones, missiles, and rockets. These attacks can lead to disruptions in air transportation due to sudden and prolonged airspace closures, with potential collateral damage from military interceptions.
The U.S. Embassy in Beirut issued a travel advisory this month urging Americans to avoid travel to southern Lebanon, the border region between Syria and Lebanon, and refugee settlements. The embassy warned that regional tensions in these areas could worsen, and the Lebanese government may not be able to ensure the protection of U.S. citizens in case of sudden violence or conflict outbreaks.
The Canadian Foreign Minister also emphasized the increasingly volatile security situation in Lebanon. Should the armed conflict intensify, the Canadian consulate may not be able to provide consular services, as stated by the minister.