Briefing d'orientation en Israël

Israël est devenu une puissance économique et militaire régionale, s'appuyant sur son secteur de haute technologie prospère, sur une industrie de défense importante et sur les préoccupations suscitées par l'Iran pour nouer des partenariats dans le monde entier. L'État d'Israël a été créé en 1948. En 1947, l'Assemblée générale des Nations Unies a proposé de partager le mandat britannique de Palestine en un État arabe et un État juif. Les Juifs ont accepté la proposition, mais les Arabes locaux et les États arabes ont rejeté le plan de l'ONU et ont déclenché une guerre. Les Arabes ont ensuite été vaincus lors de la guerre de 1947-1949, qui a suivi la proposition de l'ONU et le retrait britannique. Israël a adhéré à l'ONU en 1949 et a connu une croissance démographique rapide, principalement due à l'immigration de réfugiés juifs venus d'Europe et du Moyen-Orient. Israël et ses voisins arabes se sont affrontés lors des guerres de 1956, 1967 et 1973. Israël a signé des traités de paix avec l'Égypte en 1979 et avec la Jordanie en 1994. Au cours de la guerre de 1967, Israël a pris le contrôle de la Cisjordanie, de la partie orientale de Jérusalem, de la bande de Gaza, de la péninsule du Sinaï et du plateau du Golan. Il a rendu le Sinaï à l'Égypte entre 1979 et 1982, mais a continué d'administrer les autres territoires par l'intermédiaire d'autorités militaires. Israël et des responsables palestiniens ont signé des accords intérimaires dans les années 1990, qui ont instauré une période d'autonomie palestinienne dans certaines parties de la Cisjordanie et de la bande de Gaza. Israël s'est retiré de Gaza en 2005. Les efforts formels les plus récents entre Israël et l'Autorité palestinienne pour négocier les questions relatives au statut final ont eu lieu en 2013 et 2014, et les États-Unis poursuivent leurs efforts pour faire progresser la paix. Israël a signé, en 2020, les accords de normalisation négociés par les États-Unis (les accords d'Abraham) avec Bahreïn, les Émirats arabes unis et le Maroc, et il a conclu un accord avec le Soudan en 2021. L'immigration vers Israël se poursuit, avec plus de 44 000 nouveaux immigrants estimés, pour la plupart juifs, au cours des 11 premiers mois de 2023.

L'ancien Premier ministre Benjamin NETANYAHU est revenu au pouvoir en 2022, poursuivant sa domination sur le paysage politique israélien à la tête du gouvernement le plus à droite et le plus religieux d'Israël. NETANYAHU a déjà exercé les fonctions de Premier ministre de 1996 à 1999 et de 2009 à 2021, devenant ainsi le chef du gouvernement israélien le plus longtemps en fonction.

Le 7 octobre 2023, des militants du HAMAS ont lancé, depuis Gaza, une attaque terroriste combinée, composée de tirs de roquettes non guidées et d'une offensive terrestre, contre le sud d'Israël. Le même jour, l'armée de l'air israélienne a lancé des frappes aériennes à l'intérieur de Gaza et entamé une campagne aérienne soutenue contre les cibles du HAMAS dans l'ensemble de la bande de Gaza. Le lendemain, NETANYAHU a officiellement déclaré la guerre au HAMAS, et le 28 octobre, les Forces de défense israéliennes (IDF) ont lancé une offensive terrestre de grande ampleur à l'intérieur de Gaza.

L'économie israélienne a connu une transformation spectaculaire au cours des 30 dernières années, sous l'impulsion de secteurs de haute technologie de pointe. Les découvertes de gaz offshore en Méditerranée placent Israël au centre d'un marché régional potentiel du gaz naturel. En 2022, un accord négocié par les États-Unis entre Israël et le Liban a établi leur frontière maritime, permettant à Israël de commencer la production sur de nouveaux gisements de gaz en Méditerranée. Toutefois, le développement économique d'Israël reste inégal. Des problèmes structurels, tels que le faible taux de participation des populations religieuses et minoritaires au marché du travail, la faible productivité de la main-d'œuvre, le coût élevé du logement et des produits de consommation courante, ainsi que la forte inégalité des revenus, préoccupent aussi bien les économistes que la population en général. La guerre actuelle contre le Hamas a perturbé les solides fondamentaux économiques d'Israël, mais elle ne devrait pas avoir d'incidences structurelles à long terme sur l'économie.

There was an ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas following the October 7 2023 Hamas terrorist attack which saw 251 people kidnapped into Gaza. On 10 October, Hamas and Israel agreed to a ceasefire. 

There remains a risk that hostilities could reignite, and with little warning. You should check Home Front Command for the latest guidance. Restrictions may be put in place at short notice. If travelling near military operation areas, follow all Israeli official instructions. 

Military activity continues on the Gaza border. Keep up to date with the news while travelling.

Keep up to date with local travel advice on local news outlets and international outlets like the Access Coordination Unit.

Rocket fire can affect most areas of Israel and the interception of missiles over Palestine may result in falling fragments or debris. Israeli air strikes also continue into Gaza. Be cautious and make sure you know the safety actions that you should take if an Israeli warning siren sounds. Follow advice from local authorities and stay informed of the security situation through the media and this travel advice. No warning sirens will sound inside Gaza, or in the West Bank outside of Israeli settlements. See Regional risks.

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). 

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Gaza

FCDO advises against all travel to Gaza

Areas near Gaza

FCDO advises against all travel within 500m of the border with Gaza

The West Bank

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• Tulkarm Governorate, Jenin Governorate, and Tubas Governorate except Route 90

Northern Israel and Occupied Golan Heights

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• Areas north of Route 89 between Nahariyya and Dalton; north of a straight eastward line from Dalton to Route 91; and north of Route 91 across the Golan Heights, excluding routes 89 and 91 themselves

• Within 500m of the Area of Separation in the occupied Golan Heights (the ‘Alpha line’). Do not attempt to enter the occupied Golan Heights through Syria

• Sheba’a Farms and Ghajja

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel

West Bank

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• The rest of the West Bank, except for: East Jerusalem, Bethlehem Governate, Ramallah Municipality, Jericho municipality and all areas which lie south of it (this includes the Allenby crossing). Highway 1 that links Jerusalem and Tel Aviv and the areas that lie to the south and west of the Highway (this includes Highway 3), and Route 443 and Highway 45 which link Jerusalem and Tel Aviv

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.

Regional tensions

The context in the Middle East remains deeply unpredictable and the risk of sudden escalation is high. Since conflict began in early 2026, Iran has stated its intention to target locations associated with the US and Israel, including, but not limited to, organisations, businesses, facilities, and institutions. There have been strikes and retaliatory attacks by Iran and others across the region against civilian and US military infrastructure. 

British nationals in, or planning to travel through, the Middle East should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions. You should:

• read If you’re affected by a crisis abroad - GOV.UK. This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis”  

• sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts

• follow advice from the local authorities 

• monitor local and international media for the latest information, including updates relating to airports and airspace which could close at short notice 

• stay away from areas around security or military facilities  

• keep your departure plans under review, and ensure your travel documents are up to date 

• if advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection. The greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts, and you are safest inside a secure structure. Do not approach or touch any drone or missile fragments or unusual objects

Shelter in place  

Follow the instructions of the local authorities. If you are advised to take shelter, Israel’s Home Front Command provides guidance on how to find a protected space. The best option is a residential protected space (Mamad, Mamak or Maman) or a communal shelter. If that is not possible, choose a stairwell without windows and exterior walls and stay at its centre.

Sign up to receive information and alerts. Visit Israel’s Home Front Command.

If you are in Israel and Palestine

Due to ongoing regional tensions, we recommend against all  travel to some parts of Israel and Palestine.

The situation could escalate quickly and poses significant risks. Regional tensions may cause international borders (air and land) to close.

If you are in Israel and Palestine, be aware that whilst the frequency of missile and drone attacks has decreased there is a risk of rocket and drone attacks throughout Israel. There is a risk of shrapnel from intercepted missiles falling across Israel and Palestine, and possible disruption at Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv.

Political tension can cause demonstrations and clashes around anniversaries and significant events.

Keep up to date through local media and follow the instructions of Israeli Home Front Command. To find these:

• visit the Israeli Home Front Command website (available in Israel only).

• call 104 if you are in Israel

Before travelling within Israel or Palestine, check the local measures in place, that roads are open and, where appropriate, that scheduled train and bus services are operating.

Travel within or out of Israel or Palestine is at your own risk. You are encouraged to follow the advice of local authorities, for example on which routes are open or when to take shelter.

Leaving Gaza

Border crossings out of Gaza have been closed to civilians and general traffic since the Israeli military took control of the Rafah crossing on 6 May 2024. Consular support is not available from within Gaza. If you are a British national in Gaza who wants to leave Gaza, you should make contact with us as soon as possible. There are currently no exit routes available for foreign nationals to depart Gaza independently. We are working with the Israeli, Palestinian and other authorities in the region to help British nationals leave via safe routes.

If you are a UK visa holder who meets all of the following criteria, you can contact us to request support to leave Gaza if:

• you have a spouse/partner or a child aged 17 or under currently living in the UK, and

• you hold valid permission to enter or remain in the UK for longer than 6 months

Help from other organisations 

Keep up to date with local travel advice through local news outlets and international outlets like the Access Coordination Unit.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

• women travellers
• disabled travellers
• LGBT+ travellers
• solo and independent travel
• volunteering and adventure travel

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice 

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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This travel advice covers Israel and Palestine.

Conflict between Lebanese Hizballah and Israel

Following the conflict between Israel and Lebanese Hizballah (LH), a cessation of hostilities was announced on 16 April 2026. However, fighting continues and the dynamic nature of the conflict means the situation may change quickly.

There remains a risk that hostilities could reignite, and with little warning. Check Home Front Command for the latest guidance. Restrictions may be put in place at short notice.

Conflict between Iran and Israel

Following the conflict between Israel and Iran a ceasefire was agreed on 8 April 2026.

There remains a risk that hostilities could reignite, and with little warning. Check Home Front Command for the latest guidance. Restrictions may be put in place at short notice.

Conflict between the Houthis (in Yemen) and Israel

Following the conflict between Israel and the Houthis (in Yemen), there continues to be a risk of missile and drone attacks throughout Israel. There is a risk of shrapnel from intercepted missiles falling across Israel and Palestine and possible disruption at Ben Gurion airport. On 22 and 24 September 2025, two drones fired by the Houthis fell in Eilat, injuring at least 20 people.

Check Home Front Command for the latest guidance. Restrictions may be put in place at short notice.

Conflict in Israel and Palestine

On 7 October 2023 there was a large-scale terrorist attack by Hamas in southern Israel. The frequency of attacks has significantly decreased but there is still a risk of rocket attacks throughout Israel. 

There is an increased risk of political tension which can cause demonstrations and clashes around anniversaries and significant events.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.    

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Israel and Palestine

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Israel and Palestine.

There was a large-scale terrorist attack by Hamas into southern Israel on 7 October 2023 where over 1,200 people were killed. Hamas continue to launch rockets into Israel and the Israeli Defence Forces are conducting significant military activity in Gaza.

Terrorist attacks in Israel and Palestine are very likely to continue with an increased threat of attacks, including by individuals acting alone.

Any attacks could be indiscriminate, including places visited by foreign nationals such as:

• the Old City in Jerusalem
• government, military and police installations
• security personnel including military and police
• transport networks
• businesses with western interests
• crowded places

Areas where foreign nationals and tourists are known to gather may be at higher risk of attack. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Examples of recent significant attacks include:

In 2025:

• in September, six people were killed and eight wounded in a shooting attack in northern Jerusalem

• in March, one person was killed and one person injured in a shooting attack in northern Israel

• in March, one person was killed and 3 injured in a stabbing attack in Haifa

• in February, one person was killed and 12 people were injured in a ramming and stabbing attack at Karkur Junction near Pardes Hana-Karkur, south of Haifa

• in February, 3 bombs exploded on 3 separate busses in the Tel Aviv area. Two other buses were found with bombs which failed to explode. There were no casualties. See our Regional Risks section for further information on using public transport in Tel Aviv

In 2024:

• 7 people were killed in a shooting and stabbing attack in Jaffa
• 3 people were killed in a shooting attack at the Allenby Bridge Crossing
• one person was killed and 17 injured during a ramming attack in Ra’anana

In 2023:

• 3 people were killed during a shooting attack in the Jordan Valley
• one person was killed and 6 people injured during a car-ramming incident in Tel Aviv
• one person was killed and 3 people injured in a shooting attack in Tel Aviv
• 7 people were killed and 3 injured during a shooting attack in Neve Yaakov, East Jerusalem

Terrorist kidnap

Terrorist kidnap is a risk in Gaza and along the border with Egypt. On 7 October 2023, 251 people were kidnapped by Hamas into Gaza.

British nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release. 

The long-standing policy of the British government is to not make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal. 

Political situation

There was an ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas following the October 7 2023 Hamas terrorist attack which saw 251 people kidnapped into Gaza. On 10 October, Hamas and Israel agreed to a ceasefire. 

There remains a risk that hostilities could reignite, and with little warning. You should check Home Front Command for the latest guidance. Restrictions may be put in place at short notice. If travelling near military operation areas, follow all Israeli official instructions. 

Military activity continues on the Gaza border. Keep up to date with the news while travelling.

Keep up to date with local travel advice on local news outlets and international outlets like the Access Coordination Unit.

Rocket fire can affect most areas of Israel and the interception of missiles over Palestine may result in falling fragments or debris. Israeli air strikes also continue into Gaza. Be cautious and make sure you know the safety actions that you should take if an Israeli warning siren sounds. Follow advice from local authorities and stay informed of the security situation through the media and this travel advice. No warning sirens will sound inside Gaza, or in the West Bank outside of Israeli settlements. See Regional risks.

Violent incidents

In Israel and the West Bank, there is a risk of violent incidents, including:

• stabbings
• shootings
• arson
• vehicle rammings
• stone throwing attacks on people and vehicles
• explosions

Incidents have occurred:

• in Tel Aviv
• in Be’er Sheva
• in Hadera
• in Jerusalem and the Old City, particularly at and around:
  • Damascus Gate
  • Herod’s gate
  • Lion’s Gate
  • Chain Gate
• in Nablus
• in Jenin
• in Hebron
• in Jordan Valley
• along Route 60 (especially junctions near Nablus), Route 443 and other West Bank arterial roads used by both Palestinians and Israelis
• at Israeli checkpoints

Incidents have involved protestors (Israelis and Palestinians), Israeli security forces and civilians (including Israeli settlers). Tourists or bystanders could be caught up in incidents.

Demonstrations and armed clashes

Large political demonstrations can:

• happen across Israel and Palestine
• happen at short notice and often turn violent
• affect entry and exit to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv – check before you travel

You should:

• check local news before travelling for information on recent clashes
• avoid large gatherings and demonstrations
• check locally before travelling to areas where there has been recent violence and follow the instructions of the local authorities

If Israeli security operations or armed clashes are happening near you, stay inside and wait for the local authorities to confirm that the situation is calm before moving to a different location.

There is increased risk of political tension, which can cause demonstrations and clashes, during events such as:

• Thursday and Saturday evenings
• after Friday prayers
• Jewish high holidays (Passover, Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur and Succoth)
• Ramadan, in particular Laylat Al Qadr
• other religious holidays
• anniversaries including 7 October, Independence Day (14 May, Hebrew calendar dates vary), Jerusalem Day (date varies), Land Day (30 March), Nakba Day (15 May)

Risks increase when religious or national holidays overlap.

Some of these protests have led to violent clashes.

Refugee camps

Be extremely cautious if visiting refugee camps. Hebron and Palestinian refugee camps have previously been the site of violent clashes.

Settlements

There have been recent violent incidents in settlements and settlement outposts, including near Beit El, Homesh, Shilo and Evyatar.   

Crime

Protecting your belongings

Keep your personal belongings in a safe place. Theft of passports, credit cards, and valuables from public beaches is common.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Always carry ID, for example, a copy of the personal details and entry stamp pages of your passport).

Dress code

In Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza, clothing should cover your shoulders, upper arms, and legs above the knee.

Locals in ultra-Orthodox Jewish neighbourhoods such as Bnei Brak, Modi’in Illit, Beitar Illit, Beit Shemesh and Safed can react strongly to anyone, particularly women, dressed less conservatively. Check locations of ultra-Orthodox neighbourhoods and towns in travel guides.

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. If you are in Palestine during this time, do not:

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
• play loud music or dance
• swear in public

Children aged 7 and under do not fast during Ramadan.

Access and prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan have seen restrictions and heightened security measures by Israeli authorities. This includes age and gender-based entry restrictions, and routine physical searches. There will be a heightened security environment and tense atmosphere during Ramadan in the Old City.

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also: 

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk or be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening
• be patient and show tolerance

Buying property

There are risks in buying property in Israeli settlements on land considered to be occupied under international law in East Jerusalem, the rest of the West Bank and the Golan. A future peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians, or between Israel and Syria, could have consequences for property you buy in these settlements.

FCDO does not offer legal advice on or become involved in private property disputes.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

If you’re caught with drugs, you can expect a prison sentence.

Using cameras

Be sensitive about taking pictures of people in Muslim and Orthodox Jewish areas. Do not take photographs of military or police officers or installations.

LGBT+ travellers

Israeli law does not criminalise same-sex sexual relations between consenting adults. In Palestine, same-sex sexual activity is legal in the West Bank but illegal in Gaza, where it carries a 10-year prison sentence.

Attitudes towards LGBT+ issues in some parts of Palestinian and Israeli society can be hostile.

In more conservative Israeli areas in the West Bank, including in ultra-Orthodox communities, if you show affection in public, regardless of your gender or sexuality, you may receive negative attention.

In Palestinian society, same-sex relationships are largely taboo. Some Palestinian groups may violently oppose cultural events and demonstrations, which they see as inconsistent with their values. This includes those seen as linked to the LGBT+ community, even if the event is not intended to promote LGBT+ rights. In these cases, the Palestinian security forces and police may not always act effectively to protect participants. Be aware of these risks. Liaise with local authorities before planning or organising any event.

Tel Aviv has a large, active LGBT+ community and a big annual Pride parade. Jerusalem also has an annual Pride parade, but there has been a heavy security presence at the event since a fatal stabbing in 2015. Be aware of your personal security if attending.

See more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

If you’re caught breaking local laws on import and export of wild animals, expect to receive a substantial fine and up to 2 years in prison. For more information on the regulations and laws in Israel see the Israeli Nature and Park Authority website.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Israel and Palestine, see information on driving abroad.

You’ll need to have both the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

You must carry a green card to prove you have the minimum insurance cover.

There are frequent road accidents due to:

• erratic driving
• unreliable vehicle maintenance

Police operate radar speed traps on some roads and issue heavy fines for speeding.

Avoid driving into ultra-Orthodox Jewish areas of Jerusalem on Shabbat. Shabbat is from sunset on Friday to nightfall on Saturday. If you attempt to drive into these areas, local residents may throw stones at your car.

Hiring a car

If you want to drive across into the West Bank, check your insurance will cover you there. Some hire companies do not insure vehicles taken there. It may be easier to hire a fully insured car from a company in East Jerusalem.

Hitchhiking

It is not safe to hitchhike in Israel and Palestine.

Driving in the desert

If you’re travelling to the desert, you should:

• go with others
• take a supply of water
• take a mobile phone
• let someone know your itinerary and expected return time

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Flooding

Roads can flood during extreme weather conditions. Flash flooding is a risk, particularly in the arid southern region of the Negev. Check risk areas locally.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes are a risk in Israel and Palestine. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.
  

This travel advice covers Israel and Palestine.

This section has safety advice for regions of Israel and Palestine. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Jerusalem

Since 7 October Israeli authorities have limited access to Jerusalem, and Israel in general, for residents of the West Bank, enforcing age and gender-specific restrictions for entry, particularly during Ramadan. While women aged 51 or over and men aged 56 or over with special permits have been granted entry for prayers, many potential worshippers have been turned away. Additionally, there have been routine instances of physical searches and detentions.

Street protests and demonstrations can happen across Jerusalem, including East Jerusalem and the Old City. Check local news ahead of travel and follow instructions of local authorities. Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings.

There are frequent demonstrations in many of the areas visited by tourists in the Old City and after Friday prayers. Areas include in and around:

• Damascus Gate
• Herod’s Gate
• Lion’s Gate
• the Chain Gate

Some protests have led to violent clashes. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and leave the area if there is evidence of tension or unrest, for example if the shops in the souks of the Old City suddenly begin to close their shutters. The entrances to the Old City may have additional checks, or may close.

There have been a number of violent incidents on public transport and near public transport lines. Take extra care when using public transport in Jerusalem. 

Tel Aviv

Take extra care when using public transport in Tel Aviv, in particular at transport hubs, and when using buses in the greater Tel Aviv area. Consider using other forms of transport.   

There have been large political demonstrations in Tel Aviv. Entry and exit to Ben Gurion airport has occasionally been impacted during demonstrations.

Areas near Gaza

There have been repeated instances of rocket fire from Gaza, which may reach well beyond the Gaza border area. Israel has often responded with air strikes into Gaza. You should:

• make sure you know the safety actions to take if an Israeli warning siren sounds  – no warning sirens will sound inside Gaza
• follow advice from local authorities
• stay informed of the security situation through the media

Gaza

FCDO advises against all travel to Gaza (including the waters off Gaza).

You should not approach the perimeter fence surrounding the Gaza Strip.

FCDO cannot offer routine consular assistance in Gaza. If you travel to Gaza against our advice, review your security arrangements regularly.

The border crossings with Israel (Erez) and Egypt (Rafah) may close with no notice. Check the status of the Rafah crossing into Egypt before you travel. Movement to the Rafah crossing and beyond is at your own risk. Currently, the Rafah border regularly closes with no warning and for long periods. The Erez border has been closed since October 2023.

There will be no warning siren inside Gaza and there are no official air raid shelters. Take advice from locals about the safest place to shelter.

FCDO cannot help individuals applying for entry or exit permits for Gaza. See entry requirements.

FCDO recognises that major international organisations need to carry out humanitarian and reconstruction work and engage in independent reporting and verification of the situation in Gaza. Medical and other essential specialist staff should co-ordinate their entry to and exit from Gaza with those organisations.

Do not enter Gaza by sea, including via a flotilla delivering humanitarian aid. The Israeli Navy routinely patrols the area and will prevent any vessels attempting to breach the restrictions – see entry requirements. You will be detained and deported, and your electronic equipment is likely to be confiscated. FCDO does not believe that humanitarian supplies should be delivered in this way. If you send humanitarian assistance or other goods to Gaza, use established channels.

Israel-Lebanon

There was an ongoing conflict between Israel and Lebanese Hizballah (LH). On 27 November 2024, LH and Israel agreed to a ceasefire, with a 60-day implementation period. Hostilities resumed in 2026 with a ceasefire agreed on 16 April.

There remains a risk that hostilities could reignite, and with little warning. You should check Home Front Command for the latest guidance. Restrictions may be put in place at short notice. If travelling near military operation areas, follow all Israeli official instructions.

Military activity continues on the Israel-Lebanon border. Keep up to date with the news while travelling. See also section on Conflict with Lebanese Hizballah.

Israel-Syria border

FCDO advises against all travel within 500m of the border with Syria (the ‘Alpha Line’).

The situation is fragile, with military exchanges either side of the border. If you’re travelling in the area, be aware of your personal security, check local media and follow advice from local authorities.

Occupied Golan Heights

FCDO advises against all travel within 500m of the Area of Separation in the occupied Golan Heights (the ‘Alpha line’). Do not attempt to enter the occupied Golan Heights through Syria.

FCDO advises against all travel to the Sheba’a Farms and Ghajjar.

Following the conflict between Israel and Lebanese Hizballah, a ceasefire was agreed on 27 November. There remains a risk that hostilities could reignite, and with little warning. Check Home Front Command for the latest guidance. In the occupied Golan Heights, restrictions may be put in place at short notice. Rocket attacks and sporadic gunfire occur without warning. There is also a risk of falling debris from Israeli and Syrian air defence systems.

Landmines have been planted across the occupied Golan Heights, including near to populated areas and roads. These areas are usually marked and often fenced off. Follow established roads and paths. FCDO long-standing advice has been to not hike off-trail. If you’re in the region, follow advice from local law enforcement.

Border with Egypt

The security situation on the border with Egypt is volatile. Take extra care when using the Route 10 road, which runs along the Israeli border with Egypt. Route 10 is sometimes closed by the Israeli authorities. Consider using other routes.

There are frequent clashes between Israeli Security Forces and Palestinians in these areas and violent incidents can occur without warning.

West Bank

There has been a heightened state of tension and violent clashes resulting in deaths in the West Bank since the outbreak of conflict in October 2023.

Expect road closures and numerous checkpoints across the West Bank.

There are no warning sirens or official air raid shelters inside the West Bank, outside of Israeli settlements.

You cannot travel into or out of the West Bank without passing through at least one Israeli military checkpoint. You need a passport and immigration slip to go through these checkpoints. Checkpoints may be closed during Jewish high holidays, Israeli public holidays and periods of increased instability restricting movement in and out of the West Bank. This does not normally affect foreign nationals, but would affect British-Palestinian dual nationals. Road closures can occur with little notice. Keep up to date with local travel advice through local media, and international information outlets like the UN’s Access Coordination Unit.

The cities of Bethlehem, Ramallah and Jericho see large numbers of tourists including on organised tours, although tourist numbers have reduced since 7 October 2023. While there have been no recent reports of any serious incidents involving foreigners, you should take care when travelling anywhere in the West Bank.

Violent incidents

There is a risk of violent incidents and demonstrations in the West Bank (see Political situation for details). If you are in a location where an Israeli security operation or armed clashes are ongoing, stay inside and wait for the local authorities to confirm that the situation is calm before moving to a different location.

Israelis living in the illegal settlements in the West Bank occasionally organise demonstrations which can turn violent. There are reports that settlers have threatened people travelling near to settlements and settlement outposts. Take care if you are near settlements, including those in the hills around Nablus, in the South Hebron hills and settlement outposts.

There is a closed military zone in the H2 area of Hebron (around Ash-Shuhada Street and the Ibrahimi Mosque/Tomb of the Patriarchs), where there is a risk of a hostile reaction from members of extremist groups.

Be particularly cautious if considering a visit to:

• Hebron or Palestinian refugee camps which have previously been the site of violent clashes – FCDO advises against all travel to the camps in Jenin and Nablus
• settlements and settlement outposts where there have been recent violent incidents – for example, near Beit El, Homesh, Shilo, Evyatar

Avoid these locations after dark.

Incidents have also occurred along Route 60 (especially junctions near Nablus), Route 443 and other West Bank arterial roads used by both Palestinians and Israelis. Use extreme caution on these routes, particularly at night, and leave if you see any signs of a disturbance.

Transport in the West Bank

We advise you not to use taxis in the West Bank, because of their involvement in a significant number of accidents.

Avoid using buses in the West Bank and consider the difficulties and risks of travelling between Jerusalem and Ramallah via checkpoints, along Route 60 (especially the junctions near Nablus), Route 443 and other West Bank arterial roads used by both Palestinians and Israelis.

This travel advice covers Israel and Palestine.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

For an ambulance dial:

• 100 in Israel
• 101 in the West Bank and Gaza

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Israel and Palestine
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Israel and Palestine.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Israel and Palestine

Healthcare in Israel and Palestine is not free and medical treatment can be expensive. Hospitals will insist on payment and may take legal action to stop you leaving until bills are paid. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment and repatriation.

FCDO has lists of medical providers in Israel and medical providers in Palestine where some staff will speak English.

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Israel and Palestine.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.