The US State Department on Wednesday raised its travel advisory to Israel to Level 3 – Reconsider Travel, amid the tensions following Hamas’ attack on Israel.
The Travel Advisory for Gaza remains Level 4 – Do Not Travel.
“Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities,” said the State Department’s updated travel advisory.
“Violence can occur in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza without warning. There has been a marked increase in demonstrations throughout Israel, some with little or no warning,” it added.
On Gaza, the advisory warned, “The US government is unable to provide routine or emergency services to US citizens in Gaza as US government employees are prohibited from traveling there. Hamas, a US government-designated foreign terrorist organization, controls the security infrastructure in Gaza. The security environment within Gaza and on its borders is dangerous and volatile. Sporadic mortar or rocket fire and corresponding Israeli military responses may occur at any time. During periods of unrest or armed conflict, the crossings between Gaza with Israel and Egypt may be closed.”