Israel Warns of Heightened Terror Threats Abroad, Citing Iran and Hamas

Israel's National Security Council (NSC) issued a stark warning on Sunday regarding a significant increase in the motivation of terror groups to target Israelis and Jews worldwide. The NSC cited the ongoing conflict with Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas as factors expanding the scope of risk for Israelis abroad. The council highlighted that the third anniversary of the October 7th massacre, approaching during the High Holidays, could become a focal point for protests and intensified efforts to carry out attacks.

According to the NSC, Iran and its proxies remain the primary global terror instigators against Israelis and Jews. Iran is reportedly driven by a desire for revenge for recent setbacks and is actively promoting various operations through its intelligence mechanisms and diverse proxies, including criminal organizations. Targets include diplomatic missions, senior Israeli officials, security personnel, Jewish community institutions, and ordinary Israelis.

Hezbollah is also identified as a significant potential threat, while Hamas is reportedly investing considerable effort in establishing terror infrastructures in Europe and other countries to launch retaliatory attacks against Jews and Israelis. Additionally, ISIS and Al-Qaeda continue to issue explicit calls for attacks on Jews, with a notable threat in Africa and Asia, but also a persistent desire to strike in European capitals and the United States, potentially through lone actors.

The NSC also noted a substantial rise in lone-wolf attacks against Israeli or Jewish targets, with 25 Israelis or Jews killed in such attacks abroad since the start of the "Swords of Iron" war. This threat is described as decentralized and unpredictable, fueled by escalating anti-Israeli rhetoric online. Such attackers often target "soft" and accessible locations like mass gatherings, community centers, and places of worship.

The council updated its travel advisories, categorizing countries based on threat levels. Iraq, Yemen, Iran, Syria, and Lebanon are listed as life-threatening and strictly prohibited for Israelis. Jordan, Qatar, Somaliland, Egypt (including the Sinai Peninsula), and transit flights through certain countries are designated as Level 4, with recommendations to avoid altogether. Other countries like Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, Somalia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Libya, and Algeria are listed as high-risk or with restricted access, and entry is advised against.

Recommendations for Israelis abroad include concealing Israeli or Jewish identity, avoiding real-time location sharing on social media, maintaining vigilance around Jewish institutions, staying away from protests, and familiarizing themselves with local emergency numbers. In case of an emergency, Israelis are advised to contact local security forces first before reaching out to Israeli assistance centers.