The Israel National Security Council (NSC) has assessed the increased risk facing Israelis travelling abroad, especially in anticipation of the upcoming spring holidays.
According to the NSC, numerous threats targeting Israeli interests have been successfully thwarted in recent months, underscoring the highly elevated threat level facing Israelis abroad. The NSC highlighted a persistent upward trend in threats against Israelis overseas in recent years, with the situation further exacerbated since the outset of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Of particular concern is the prominent and escalating threat posed by Iran.
As Israel braces for a surge in international travel, including attendance at events such as the Eurovision Song Contest and the Olympics, Israeli officials are urging travellers to exercise caution, especially in displaying Israeli symbols or affiliations while abroad.
The NSC emphasized that Iran remains a central figure in international terrorism, actively expanding its efforts to target Israeli citizens and Jews worldwide, both directly and through proxy organizations. Since the Israel-Hamas conflict, these nefarious activities have intensified, with Iranian terror entities attempting to establish contact with Israelis abroad, often under pretences, to inflict harm or perpetrate kidnappings.
Furthermore, the Israel-Hamas conflict has witnessed a notable uptick in Hamas-related activities targeting Jews and Israelis beyond Israel’s borders. In December 2023, significant Hamas terror infrastructure was uncovered across multiple European nations, underscoring the global reach and operational capabilities of the group, as highlighted by the NSC’s report.
The council discourages Israelis from establishing themselves overseas.
International Jihad and radical Islam continue to pose a significant threat, actively plotting and executing terrorist attacks worldwide, with a primary focus on regions spanning Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, as outlined by the NSC. Just this month, the Islamic State perpetrated a terror attack in Moscow, resulting in the tragic loss of over 100 lives and leaving numerous others injured.
Moreover, the NSC underscores the persistent danger posed by antisemitism and far-right extremism towards Israelis and Jewish communities globally. In recent months, there has been a notable surge in incitement targeting Israelis and Jews, with Jewish institutions and communities often singled out as prime targets, particularly during festive occasions.
The NSC has issued several recommendations for Israeli citizens to enhance personal safety while travelling abroad. Travelers are advised to steer clear of crowded areas such as malls and markets and locales identified as Jewish or Western. Vigilance in public spaces, including restaurants, hotels, and bars, is strongly advised.
Furthermore, the NSC advises against displaying signs of Israeli nationality in public and attending mass gatherings lacking adequate security measures. It would be best to refrain from sharing travel details on social media platforms, including real-time updates or photos from trips.
Travellers are urged to consult online travel advisories regularly. The NSC emphasizes the importance of avoiding countries with elevated risk levels whenever feasible.
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