Location: Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza
Event: Security Alert
The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem is continuously and closely monitoring the security situation in response to the increase in tensions between Israel and Lebanese Hizballah.
The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens of the continued need for caution and increased personal security awareness (including knowing the location of the nearest shelter) as security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire and unmanned aircraft system (UAS) intrusions, often take place without any warning. The security environment is complex and can change quickly.
Increased regional tensions can cause airlines to cancel and/or curtail flights into and out of Israel. If you have travel plans, you can monitor announcements at www.iaa.gov.il/en. Be prepared.
- It could take several days or longer for passengers to re-book new tickets to depart; the U.S. Embassy does not assist with this process.
- Ensure you and your family have your travel documents in order and are prepared to travel.
- Closely monitor local and international news.
U.S. citizens are encouraged to read the current Travel Advisory and Country Information Page for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza, that advises U.S. citizens to be aware of the continuing risks of travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza due to the security situation and heightened regional tensions and warns against travel to Gaza and to northern Israel within 2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders.
U.S. citizens can find additional information regarding steps to take in case of mortar and rocket fire or UAS intrusions in the Country Information for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/IsraeltheWestBankandGaza.html):
Mortar and Rocket Fire or Hostile Aircraft Intrusion: In the event of mortar or rocket fire or hostile aircraft intrusion, a “red alert” siren may be activated. Treat all such alerts as real; follow the instructions from local authorities and seek shelter immediately. Know the location of your closest shelter or protected space. U.S. government personnel and their family members may be restricted from traveling to areas affected by rocket activity, sirens, and/or the opening of bomb shelters. For additional information on appropriate action to take upon hearing a siren or explosion, see the Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command website (available on devices within Israel) or view the Preparedness Information PDF. U.S. citizens may also wish to download the free Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command application on Android or Apple devices to receive real-time security and safety alerts. Free commercial applications, such as Red Alert: Israel, are also available.
U.S. citizens should take this into consideration when planning their own activities.
The Embassy will continue to review the security situation and will provide additional information as needed.
Actions to Take:
- Refer to our website for the latest Security and Health Alerts: https://il.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/and https://il.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/security-and-travel-information/.
- Be aware of your surroundings, including the location of the nearest shelter.
- Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings.
- Avoid all areas where there is a heavy police presence.
- Monitor local media.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities.
- Enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates and makes it easier for the U.S. Embassy to contact you in an emergency.
Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Advisories (including the Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza) and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Information for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. For additional information, refer to “Traveler’s Checklist” on the State Department’s website
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