Israel Warns Citizens of Travel Risks to Egypt, Jordan, Qatar Amid Heightened Threats

Israel's National Security Council (NSC) has issued a stark warning to its citizens ahead of the Jewish holidays, citing an elevated risk of attacks targeting Israelis and Jews globally. The council's updated security assessment highlights increased threats stemming from the ongoing confrontation with Iran, Hezbollah, Hamas, and other entities, alongside a rise in anti-Israel incitement.

The NSC's assessment, released on Sunday, maintained previous travel warnings for several countries without introducing new ones. It stated that the current security landscape reflects "updated central trends" in the activities of groups perceived as threats to Israelis abroad, impacting risk levels worldwide. The council claimed that the conflict with Iran, Hezbollah, Hamas, and others has "broadened the scope of danger to Israelis around the world," alleging an increase in attempted attacks by these groups, as well as Palestinian factions and global jihadist organizations.

Furthermore, the NSC asserted that escalating anti-Israel rhetoric, coupled with the war and its repercussions, has led to a "sharp rise in the motivation of terrorist entities to target Israeli and Jewish targets." The council also pointed to the upcoming third anniversary of the October 7, 2023, attacks, expected next month, as a potential focal point for protests, some of which could turn violent, and for increased attack attempts.

Iran and its allies were identified as the primary drivers of global terrorism against Israelis and Jews, with Tehran allegedly operating through various agencies and intermediaries, including criminal elements, to target diplomatic missions, Israeli figures, security personnel, Jewish institutions, and random Israelis. The NSC suggested that Iran's actions are also motivated by a "desire for revenge" for recent strikes it has sustained.

Hezbollah was deemed a "significant potential threat," with the council linking this to the group's losses in the war with Israel and its alleged desire for revenge for the deaths of its commanders. Hamas was accused of "making significant efforts to build terrorist infrastructures in Europe and other countries" with the aim of carrying out attacks against Israelis and Jews, in addition to its activities in Gaza and the West Bank.

The report also mentioned ISIS and Al-Qaeda, noting their continued calls for attacks on Jews, particularly in Africa and Asia, with ongoing attempts in European capitals and the United States, including by lone actors. The Houthis were also cited for inciting attacks against Israel and Israelis in the self-declared region of Somalia and in Africa, viewing Israeli presence there as a threat.

The NSC warned of a rise in "individual terrorism," reporting that 25 Israelis and Jews have been killed in attacks abroad since the war began. This threat was described as "scattered and unpredictable," linked to increased anti-Israel discourse on social media, with lone attackers often targeting "easy and accessible" locations like public gatherings, community centers, and religious sites.

Regarding travel advisories, countries bordering Iran, specifically Azerbaijan, Turkey, and the UAE, remain at risk from Tehran-linked networks. Travel to Jordan, Qatar, Somalia, Egypt (including the Sinai Peninsula), and Somaliland remains at Level 4, with Israelis urged to avoid these destinations. Transit through airports in Level 4 countries is discouraged, and leaving airport terminals is prohibited.

The NSC reiterated that Israeli law prohibits entry into Iraq (including Kurdistan), Yemen, Iran, Syria, and Lebanon, deeming travel there a "real danger to life." Saudi Arabia was added to a list of countries with legal entry restrictions, alongside Bangladesh, Somalia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Libya, and Algeria, with entry discouraged.

Recommendations for travelers include avoiding displays of Israeli or Jewish symbols, minimizing Hebrew conversations in crowded public areas in Level 3 warning countries, and refraining from posting geographic locations on social media. Travelers are also advised to hide or delete any content revealing military or security service, exercise caution near Chabad centers, kosher restaurants, and synagogues, and avoid demonstrations, protests, and political discussions with strangers.