Traveling to Israel Amidst Ongoing Conflict with Hamas: What You Need to Know

In recent developments, Israel finds itself in the midst of a conflict with militants from the fundamentalist group Hamas, resulting in significant challenges for travelers. Rockets have been fired into Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, and the presence of armed terrorists in the country has escalated the situation.

As of now, over 700 Israelis have tragically lost their lives, with thousands more hospitalized. Additionally, authorities have confirmed the deaths of nine US citizens, while 10 British citizens are feared dead or missing. Hamas has also taken dozens of hostages from Israel into the wartorn strip, and Gaza has reported the loss of at least 500 lives.

Is it Safe to Travel to Israel?

Considering the ongoing conflict, travelers planning to visit Israel must prioritize their safety. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued updated travel guidelines for the affected region, advising against all but essential travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs).

This advisory requires holiday companies with clients in the affected zone to expedite their return and suspend all future trips until the advisory is downgraded. Specifically, the FCDO advises against all travel to areas including Gaza, the Sheba’a Farms and Ghajjar, regions within 500 meters of the border with Lebanon (the ‘Blue Line’) east of Metula, and areas within 500 meters of the border with Syria (the ‘Alpha Line’).

Furthermore, the advisory encompasses areas near the Gaza border, including the region southwest of Ashkelon, the area south of route 35 and west of route 40 up to Tlalim (excluding Be’er Sheva), the area west of Be’er Sheva, and the area north of route 211. The FCDO also alerts travelers to incidents that have occurred in Tel Aviv, Be’er Sheva, Hadera, Jerusalem, and the Old City, including areas around Damascus Gate, Herod’s Gate, Lion’s Gate, and the Chain Gate.

Other areas with warnings include Nablus, Jenin, Hebron, the Jordan Valley, Israeli checkpoints, regions near settlement outposts, and areas around Palestinian refugee camps. Travelers are urged to exercise extreme caution in these areas and should only travel if absolutely necessary.

Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) echoes similar sentiments, advising travelers to avoid all non-essential travel to Israel due to the “ongoing attacks that pose a significant security risk.” The DFA also urges travelers to avoid Southern Israel and to exercise extreme caution within Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem.

What If You Have a Holiday Booked in Israel?

Travelers who have booked trips to Israel and now face travel advisories against visiting will not be protected by standard travel insurance policies. If you have a package holiday to Israel, you can typically cancel and receive a full refund due to the ‘no-go’ travel warning.

Flights to and From Israel

Tel Aviv international airport, the primary travel hub in Israel, is still operational, but numerous airlines have either canceled or diverted their services. US carriers United Airlines, Delta Airlines, and American Airlines have suspended flights, while European operators have also ceased operations.

EasyJet canceled flights to Tel Aviv on specific days and has adjusted service times accordingly. Affected customers are eligible for refunds, vouchers, or free transfers to new flights.

Wizz Air flights en route to Israel at the onset of the conflict were redirected to Larnaca, the primary airport on the island of Cyprus. Flights to and from Tel Aviv have been canceled until further notice. Portugal’s TAP also suspended flights and offers refunds or rescheduling without additional costs.

On the other hand, Israel’s El Al airline states that it is operating in accordance with the instructions of security forces, and flights continue to run as scheduled.

If You Are Currently in Israel

The FCDO advises that international borders, both air and land, in Israel and the OPTs could close on short notice. If you are currently in Israel, your travel insurance should cover you until you can leave the country. However, it is essential to check with your airlines and travel insurers before traveling.

Travelers are also encouraged to consult the Israeli Home Front Command for the latest information or call 104 if they are in Israel.