On April 11, the US government updated its Travel Advisory for Israel, West Bank and Gaza amidst the war taking place in these territories and the “imminent” Iranian attack, according to Iranian national news.
Considering that mortar weapons and missiles can impact targets across these areas with no notice, the US State Department urges Americans to not travel to Gaza due to terrorism and armed conflict and to reconsider travel to Israel and the West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest.
Those who despite this advisory still want to engage in travel are requested to be alert at all times, avoid overcrowded places, monitor media outlets for the latest information about potential attacks and even have a plan ready regarding funeral preferences, children custody, and a will describing the potential distribution of your properties.
Along with getting travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, Americans should also register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to help locate them in case of need.
Gaza Strip
The US government declares itself to be unable to provide consular assistance to Americans in need in this territory. That’s why it urges citizens not to travel to Gaza.
If you do so, make a plan without relying on US assistance, take with you enough food and medication for at least two weeks, and be mentally prepared to get trapped in this territory for an indefinite number of days due to unexpected closures of the pedestrian crossings between Egypt and Gaza.
Other official recommendations include making plans with your family regarding children, property, and funeral wishes in case you get murdered.
West Bank
Americans should “reconsider travel” to this territory due to terrorism and civil unrest.
Avoid all travel to “Ramallah, Jericho, Bethlehem, Highway 1, route 90 and route 443 between Jerusalem and Modi’in.”
Regarding traveling to high-risk areas such as multiple zones in West Bank, the government reminds Americans that it has limited to no capacity to help them in case of emergency.
Israel
Terrorist attacks in Israel are expected and inevitable. The US government advises nationals to reconsider visiting due to terrorism and civil unrest.
Americans must be aware of their surroundings at all times, avoid crowded areas, and make sure they can locate the closest bomb shelters in case of an unexpected terrorist attack.
When Will the Israel-Gaza War End?
It’s uncertain. Hope for a ceasefire is mostly gone following the murder of three sons and four grandchildren of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Gaza two days ago, along with other 60 family members killed since October.
Although the Israeli government claims to have killed most Hamas operatives, Haniyeh stated that those who think this war is over are “delusional.”
“Anyone who believes that targeting my sons will push Hamas to change its position is delusional,” Haniyeh told Al Jazeera TV.