International Travel Advice for Israel
🇺🇸 United States — Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Last updated: May 12, 2026
The Department of State currently recommends exercising increased caution in Israel proper due to the potential for terrorism and civil unrest.
Travelers are strictly advised not to travel to Gaza due to the ongoing high risk of armed conflict, kidnapping, and terrorism.
Reconsider all travel to the West Bank as the security situation remains unpredictable and can deteriorate without prior notice.
The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem frequently issues security alerts regarding localized demonstrations and potential rocket fire in major urban centers.
Visitors are urged to maintain a high level of situational awareness and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time safety updates. Please check the official websites: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/IsraeltheWestBankandGaza.html & [suspicious link removed]
🇬🇧 United Kingdom — Against all but essential travel (parts only)
Last updated: May 11, 2026
The FCDO has lifted broad travel advisories for Israel proper but maintains a warning against all but essential travel to the West Bank.
A strict "Do Not Travel" advisory remains in place for Gaza and all areas within 500m of the borders with Lebanon and Syria.
Travelers should remain vigilant in public places and follow the instructions of local security authorities at all times. Please check the official website: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/israel
🇨🇦 Canada — Exercise a high degree of caution
Last updated: May 12, 2026
Canada recommends exercising a high degree of caution throughout Israel due to the regional security environment and the threat of terrorism.
Avoid all travel to Gaza and the immediate border regions with Lebanon and Syria due to active military activity.
Travel to the West Bank should be limited to essential needs only, as localized clashes and security operations occur frequently. Please check the official website: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/israel-and-palestine
🇦🇺 Australia — Reconsider your need to travel
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Australia advises citizens to reconsider their need to travel to Israel overall due to the volatile and unpredictable security situation.
Do not travel to Gaza or any areas near the borders with Lebanon and Syria where military tensions remain extremely high.
Exercise extreme caution in the West Bank and avoid all political gatherings or demonstrations that could turn violent. Please check the official website: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/middle-east/israel
🇩🇪 Germany — Partial Travel Warning
Last updated: May 13, 2026
A partial travel warning is currently in effect, specifically for Gaza and the northern border zones adjacent to Lebanon.
While travel to Israel proper is permitted with caution, travelers are discouraged from visiting the West Bank due to rapid changes in the security status.
Visitors should closely monitor local media and ensure they have access to hardened shelters in the event of security sirens. Please check the official website: https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/service/laender/israel-node/israelsicherheit/203814
🇫🇷 France — Vigilance renforcée
Last updated: May 11, 2026
France maintains a status of "Vigilance renforcée" (Enhanced Vigilance), emphasizing the need for travelers to stay alert to security developments.
Formal advice against travel is in place for Gaza and specific security corridors along the northern and eastern borders.
Travelers in the West Bank or major urban centers should avoid crowds and follow the safety guidelines issued by Israeli security forces. Please check the official website: https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/conseils-aux-voyageurs/conseils-par-pays-destination/israel-palestine/
🇳🇿 New Zealand — Exercise increased caution
Last updated: May 09, 2026
New Zealanders are advised to exercise increased caution in Israel due to the ongoing risk of terrorism and civil unrest.
Avoid all travel to Gaza and the border areas with Lebanon and Syria where the risk of military engagement remains significant.
Reconsider travel to the West Bank as the potential for localized violence and security disruptions is high. Please check the official website: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/destinations/israel-and-the-occupied-palestinian-territories
All the above are not official recommendations. For official recommendations, please visit the relevant government websites provided. Travelers are responsible for their own safety and should consult official sources before making travel arrangements.
Official Israel Travel Advice FAQ
Security & Entry Updates: May 2026
What is the current travel advisory for visiting Israel in 2026?
+
The security situation in Israel is currently volatile, with many nations issuing Level 3 (Reconsider Travel) or Level 4 (Do Not Travel) advisories for specific regions. Travelers should monitor our International Travel Advice for Israel page daily for real-time updates from the US, UK, and Canada.
How do I apply for the new ETA-IL visa for Israel?
+
Most visa-exempt travelers must obtain an ETA-IL at least 72 hours before their flight to be granted entry into the country. You can follow our simple, step-by-step guide on How to Apply for your Israel ETA-IL Visa to ensure your travel authorization is processed correctly.
Is it safe to fly into Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) right now?
+
Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) is operating, but flight schedules are subject to immediate changes based on current security conditions. We recommend checking the official Real-Time Flight Board frequently and booking flexible tickets with Israeli carriers like El Al.
Does travel insurance cover medical emergencies in Israel during a conflict?
+
Many standard travel insurance policies exclude "acts of war," so it is critical to confirm if your provider offers a high-risk or "Cancel for Any Reason" (CFAR) add-on. For more on managing your financial risks, see our Israel Trip Budget Calculator and insurance tips.
What should I do if a State of Emergency is declared while I am in Israel?
+
You must strictly follow all directives from the Home Front Command, which may include sheltering in place or avoiding specific border zones. Detailed instructions on what to do during sirens can be found in our Israel Emergency Guide for Tourists.
Are the border crossings from Jordan and Egypt currently open?
+
Land borders like the Allenby Bridge and Taba crossing remain open, but they are subject to restricted hours or sudden closures during high-tension periods. For current logistics and regional transit options, visit our Israel Transportation & Logistics guide.
How can I receive real-time security alerts on my phone in Israel?
+
Downloading the official Home Front Command app is the best way to receive instant, GPS-based alerts for your exact location. For a complete list of recommended safety apps for travelers, check our Israel Emergency Guide.
Will entering Israel affect my ability to visit other Middle Eastern countries?
+
No, Israel no longer stamps passports and instead issues a blue entry card, which ensures your visit will not complicate travel to other Arab nations. You can find more essential arrival facts on our About Israel Essentials page.
Is public transportation operating normally during the security situation?
+
Most trains and buses continue to run, although routes near border areas or high-friction zones may be temporarily rerouted. You can stay updated on current transit availability via our Transportation Guide.
Can I still visit holy sites in Jerusalem and Bethlehem safely?
+
Most sites in Jerusalem's Old City and Bethlehem remain open, but access may be restricted by checkpoints during periods of high alert. Always check the latest International Travel Advice before planning your daily visits to these areas.
Explore Israel
