Current travel warning: Dangerous Israel! Holidaymakers beware!

Current travel warning: Dangerous Israel! Holidaymakers beware!

The security situation in Israel is tense, as the Foreign Office announced in a current partial travel warning. Travel warnings apply in particular to the Gaza Strip, the West Bank and northern Israel. German citizens who are in risky areas should urgently consider leaving the country. On October 7, 2023, massive Hamas attacks occurred, resulting in military operations and clashes with the Houthi militia in Yemen, Iran and Lebanon.

The large number of rocket attacks and the high risk of terrorist attacks represent a major threat. In the current situation, in which Israel is officially in a state of war, the authorities advise against traveling to other parts of Israel and to East Jerusalem. The security situation can quickly deteriorate, especially during public holidays. Travelers are requested to read the Federal Foreign Office’s safety instructions carefully.

Recommended safety precautions

Travelers should also familiarize themselves with Israeli Civil Defense precautions and use local warning apps such as Red Alert (Nofzam). Registration in the ELEFAND crisis preparedness list is strongly recommended. This registration is free of charge and enables a quick supply of information about current developments. It is also advisable to follow safety-related instructions from local authorities.

The security situation is further exacerbated by military conflicts within the country, particularly in the West Bank, where violent riots often occur. German citizens living or traveling in the areas affected by the warnings should provide their current contact details, as consular assistance in the region is often difficult or impossible.

Health and entry information

Overall, medical care in Israel is comparable to that in Germany, while it is often inadequate in the Palestinian territories. Travelers are recommended to get vaccinated against hepatitis A and poliomyelitis and to take mosquito repellent and hygiene measures.

To enter Israel, a passport is required that must be valid for at least six months beyond the trip. Since January 2025, an electronic entry confirmation (ETA-IL) has also been required. Additional security questions can be carried out at the border, especially for travelers with Arab or Iranian connections. Entry with pets is only permitted in certain places.

The travel warnings should be understood against the background of the ongoing conflict and current developments in the Middle East. Travelers should therefore follow regular news and weather reports during their stay and stay informed about possible changes in the security situation. Current developments are followed in a live ticker, and the article is continuously updated with new information. Further details can be found on the website FAZ as well as the Foreign Office to find.