The concern for the security of Israelis abroad is growing due to the increasing threats from Iran and Hamas, coupled with a rise in antisemitic incidents and attempts to harm Jews and Israelis. In response to these challenges, the National Security Council (NSC) has updated travel warnings to Level 2 for 80 countries worldwide, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Russia, Brazil, Argentina, and Australia.
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A more severe warning (Level 3) has been issued for South Africa, Eritrea, and several Asian countries. A Level 2 travel warning is termed a "potential threat," and the NSC advises taking enhanced precautionary measures when staying in these countries. On the other hand, Level 3 indicates a "moderate threat level," with the recommendation to avoid non-essential travel to these nations.
In addition to the heightened alert levels, the NSC has issued several general recommendations for Israelis traveling abroad:
- Postpone trips to countries with travel warnings, emphasizing those in the Arab world, the Middle East, the North Caucasus, nations surrounding Iran, and certain Muslim-majority countries in Asia.
- Check the status of protests and incidents of violence against Israel in the chosen destination, even in countries without travel warnings.
- Stay away from demonstrations and protests.
- Maintain vigilance during the stay at the destination and pay attention to the surroundings.
- Avoid displaying Israeli and Jewish symbols, as well as large gatherings of Israeli and Jewish entities.
- Inquire in advance about emergency phone numbers at the chosen destination, including local Israeli representations if available.
"An unprecedented confluence of numerous terror efforts alongside antisemitic incidents has created a complex situation, including instances of incitement and violent events on the streets," explained a senior official from the NSC. "The travel warning stems from a convergence of threat levels, local extremist networks, the capabilities of local security services to function, and their connection with Israel."