National Security Council Warns of Rising Terror Threat to Israelis Abroad

Israel's National Security Council (NSC) has issued a warning regarding a continuous rise in the threat of terrorism targeting Israelis and Jews worldwide, particularly ahead of the High Holidays and the third anniversary of the October 7th attacks. The NSC emphasized that these are not new travel advisories but reflect an increasing risk and motivation among terrorist groups to attack Israeli and Jewish targets globally, potentially through decentralized, unpredictable lone-wolf attacks.

Iran and its proxies are identified as primary instigators, seeking revenge for recent setbacks and utilizing criminal elements against Israeli missions, officials, security personnel, community institutions, and ordinary Israelis. Hezbollah is reportedly attempting to advance attack plans, while Hamas is establishing infrastructure in Europe and elsewhere. Global jihadist organizations like ISIS and Al-Qaeda are issuing explicit calls for attacks on Jews in Africa, Asia, and Western countries, and the Houthis are targeting Israelis in Somaliland and Africa.

The NSC highlighted specific areas of heightened risk, including countries bordering Iran such as Azerbaijan, Turkey, and the UAE. Severe Level 4 travel warnings remain in effect for Jordan, Qatar, Somaliland, and Egypt (including the Sinai Peninsula), with an absolute legal prohibition on travel to Iraq, Yemen, Iran, Syria, and Lebanon. Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Libya, and Algeria are also designated as high-risk locations.

Recommended precautions for travelers include concealing Israeli and Jewish symbols, avoiding real-time location sharing or posting military service details on social media, and exercising increased caution near Chabad houses, synagogues, and kosher restaurants. In case of suspected threats, the directive is to first contact local security authorities before informing Israeli assistance channels. The NSC's travel advisory center and the Foreign Ministry's situation center are available for assistance.