U.S. State Department Warns Against Travel to Israel, West Bank, and Gaza

The U.S. State Department has issued new travel advisors for Americans scheduled for, or looking to, travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza, in light of attacks across the region this week.

“Terrorist groups, lone-wolf terrorists, and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza,” the advisory reads.

“Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Violence can occur in Israel the West Bank and Gaza without warning. There has been a marked increase in demonstrations throughout Israel, some with little or no warning.

For the moment, the State Department is telling Americans to avoid traveling to Gaza due to terrorism, civil unrest, and armed conflict. It is also saying to exercise increased caution when traveling to Israel and the West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest.

Ben Gurion International Airport, Israel’s largest airport, remains open, though several major airlines have suspended flights from the hub, including United Airlines, American, and Delta. 

All travelers should check with their airlines before heading to the airport. For U.S. citizens in Gaza wanting to leave, the State Department is telling them to check the status of the Rafah Crossing into Egypt.

FAA warning
At the same time, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued its own warning to pilots and airlines flying into or out of Tel Aviv. The NOTAM warning advises all to “exercise caution.” 

“Due to the ongoing conflict situation in the region, between Israel and Gaza-based extremist militants, operators are advised to review current security, threat information, and NOTAMs. Delays are expected, [so] operators should calculate fuel accordingly,” the advisory reads.