Israel Warns of Heightened Terror Threat Abroad Around October 7 Anniversary

The public is urged to exercise heightened vigilance and take several precautions. The National Security Council advised against posting travel plans on social media in advance, uploading content indicating military or security service, and speaking Hebrew in crowded public places within Level 3 advisory areas. Travelers are also instructed to stay away from protests and gatherings, and to contact local security forces first in case of an emergency.

Specific travel warnings were highlighted, with the council strongly discouraging travel to destinations under a Level 4 travel advisory, the highest threat level. These locations include Jordan, Qatar, Somaliland, and Egypt, specifically mentioning the Sinai Peninsula. Those already in Level 4 countries are advised to leave immediately.

In parallel, Defense Minister Israel Katz claimed that Hamas was planning attacks against Israeli forces in Gaza on the anniversary, instructing the military to increase readiness. However, a security official downplayed the alert level in Gaza, stating it did not exceed standing readiness. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also suggested Hamas might act to influence the upcoming October 27 elections, vowing to thwart their attempts and dismantle the organization.