Travel warnings on the Mediterranean: Avoid these 5 countries now!

Travel warnings on the Mediterranean: Avoid these 5 countries now!

The Foreign Office has currently warned against traveling to five countries on the Mediterranean. These warnings are to be understood as urgent and are intended to provide travelers with guidance. The affected countries are Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, Syria and Libya. Experts warn that there is an increased risk of terrorist activities and military operations in these regions in particular. The connection to the dangers in the Middle East is further reinforced by the global threat of terrorism, such as this auswärtse_amt.de indicates.

In Egypt, a partial travel warning is issued for certain regions. This includes the north of the Sinai Peninsula and the border area with Israel, with the exception of Taba. Travelers should beware of undertaking excursions and overland journeys in Sharm el-Sheikh alone and without professional guidance, as inadequately marked minefields pose an additional danger. These instructions are primarily intended to point out the increased risk of terrorist activities.

Regional risks and safety information

In Israel there is also a partial travel warning for the Gaza Strip, the West Bank and the north of Israel (north of Road 85). Travelers must expect violent clashes and military operations. In Lebanon, the Foreign Office warns against traveling to the south of the country, the Bekaa Valley and areas near the border with Syria, where armed clashes and kidnappings can occur.

Syria and Libya are subject to general travel warnings due to ongoing conflicts and unstable security situations. In both countries, consular support from German representations is severely limited. The risk of terrorist activities is particularly high in Libya.

Travel within Cyprus and Turkey

For Cyprus, the island is actually divided into two parts. The internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus lies in the south, while the self-proclaimed “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” exists in the north. Travelers should be careful when crossing into the northern part via unauthorized border crossings as there is a risk of legal consequences.

Turkey is currently not receiving a general travel warning, but there are security risks in certain regions, particularly in the southeastern provinces near the Syrian border. In large cities such as Istanbul and Ankara, it is recommended to be vigilant in crowds.

Safe travel destinations on the Mediterranean

For travelers who are planning a worry-free stay on the Mediterranean, the Federal Foreign Office recommends countries such as Greece, Spain, Italy, France and Croatia. The security situation in these countries differs significantly from the risk areas mentioned above.

In addition, the need to find out about the current entry and customs regulations before traveling and to take out sufficiently comprehensive insurance cover is emphasized. Travelers should continue to be aware of the potential threats posed by terrorist organizations such as Al Qaeda and the Islamic State. Attacks targeting crowds of people or important sights could occur at any time.

Information on terrorist threats and security risks abroad must be regularly reviewed and adjusted to ensure the best possible protection for travelers. It is recommended to follow local and international media and report suspicious activity to local security authorities.