US warns its citizens against traveling to Israel, occupied West Bank, Gaza due to security risks

HAMILTON, Canada

The US Department of State on Monday updated its travel advisory for Israel, the occupied West Bank, and Gaza, warning Americans not to travel to the region due to heightened security risks.

The advisory includes the authorized departure of family members of US government employees and some non-emergency personnel.

"Do not travel to Israel due to armed conflict, terrorism, and civil unrest," the State Department said, issuing similar warnings for the occupied West Bank and Gaza, citing ongoing "terrorism and civil unrest."

The advisory also urged Americans to avoid northern Israel within 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) of the Lebanese and Syrian borders due to "continued military presence and activity."

"The security situation in Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, is unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness," it added.

The Travel Advisory for the mentioned regions remains Level 4: Do Not Travel.