Israel travel advice

Most visits to Israel are trouble-free.

All travel to Gaza (including the waters off Gaza) is not advised. Both Hamas and Israel have announced cease-fires following the recent conflict in Gaza. But these cease-fires are fragile and tensions remain extremely high. Palestinian attacks from within Gaza, and Israeli air strikes and military incursions continue.

There is a significant threat of internal violence within Gaza.The Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK believes splinter terrorist groups opposed to Hamas have the intent and capability to attack or kidnap westerners.

Travellers should be aware that the Gaza Strip borders are controlled by the Israeli and Egyptian governments. Long delays of days, or even weeks, are routinely experienced when travellers request entry/exit permits for Gaza.

There is a risk of rocket fire from Gaza within 40km (24 miles) of the Gaza perimeter (including Sderot, Netivot, Ashkelon, Ashdod and Be'er Sheva).

Security has improved significantly in the West Bank. However, travellers should be aware that the situation remains fragile and could deteriorate at short notice. You are advised to consult travel advice regularly and register with the British Consulate-General in Jerusalem if you intend to visit the West Bank.

In the north, travellers are advised against all travel to the Sheba'a Farms and Ghajjar, along the border with Lebanon (the "Blue Line"). There are ongoing tensions along the border and a heavy military presence in the area. On 11 September 2009, two rockets were fired from southern Lebanon into Azhhziv, north of Nahariya in northern Israel. Israel responded by firing a number of shells near the rocket launch site. No casualties were reported on either side.

While many tourists and business people visit Israel without problems, there remains a general threat from terrorism. Attacks cannot be ruled out and could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

In July 2008 there were three terrorist attacks in Jerusalem, resulting in four deaths and 53 wounded.

You are advised to maintain a high level of vigilance when travelling anywhere in Jerusalem and in the West Bank and to check travel advice regularly. The security situatioin can change rapidly. For immediate, specific information about planned demonstrations or any other events which may affect the local security situation, you should register with the Consulate-General in Jerusalem.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel