Israel Warns Citizens Against Travel to Several Countries Ahead of Holidays

As the High Holidays approach, Israel's National Security Council (NSC) has issued a travel warning for Israeli citizens abroad, citing heightened terror threats. The ongoing "Swords of Iron" war and continued tensions with Iran, Hezbollah, Hamas, and other groups have expanded the scope of risks for Israelis worldwide.

Hezbollah is identified as a significant potential threat, motivated by recent heavy losses and a desire for revenge for its senior members' deaths. Hamas, according to the NSC, is actively establishing terror infrastructures in Europe and other regions to carry out attacks against Jews and Israelis. Additionally, ISIS and Al-Qaeda continue to call for attacks on Jews, with threats particularly prominent in Africa and Asia, but also a persistent desire to strike in European capitals and the U.S. The Houthis are also calling for attacks on Israel and Israelis in the Horn of Africa region.

The NSC has categorized threat levels and destinations. Level 4 warnings, advising complete avoidance of travel, include Jordan, Qatar, Somaliland, Egypt (including the Sinai Peninsula). Israelis are also urged to avoid connecting flights and transit through Level 4 countries, and to stay within airport terminals. Countries where travel is legally prohibited due to extreme danger, with a risk to life, include Iraq (including Kurdistan), Yemen, Iran, Syria, and Lebanon. This prohibition applies to all Israeli citizens, including those with dual nationality.

Further recommendations include avoiding travel to Saudi Arabia (where entry is legally restricted), Bangladesh, Somalia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Libya, and Algeria. The NSC also advises Israelis abroad to avoid displaying Israeli or Jewish symbols, refrain from posting real-time locations, remain vigilant in public places, stay away from protests, and avoid political discussions with foreigners. Travelers are encouraged to carry local emergency numbers and avoid countries with no diplomatic ties to Israel.