Current Travel Safety Advisory for Israel

The UK Foreign Office has escalated its travel advice for Israel to “red” from “amber” as of Sunday, June 15, effectively advising against all travel to the entire country and aligning its stance with that of Iran.

This weekend, tensions have intensified, with both Israel and Iran exchanging fire. Over Saturday and Sunday, Iran launched missiles and drones targeting Israel, prompting retaliatory strikes by the Israel Defence Forces on Iranian sites, including military and nuclear facilities. Both nations have indicated that their military actions will persist, raising concerns of a prolonged conflict.

On the morning of June 16, the Israeli government confirmed that a missile had been fired from Yemen into Israeli territory.

Currently, Israel is under a state of emergency with residents urged to remain near bomb shelters. Reports indicate widespread power outages and fires, with numerous buildings sustaining damage. An estimated 40,000 tourists find themselves stranded in Israel as the UK government prepares contingency plans for evacuating its citizens, given that flight routes and land borders have been closed. The Foreign Office has advised British nationals in Israel to register their whereabouts. Here’s an overview of the current situation.

Updated Government Stance on Travel to Israel

The circumstances in the Middle East are evolving rapidly. As of June 15, the UK Foreign Office has raised its travel advisory to “red,” discouraging all travel to Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories. Travelling against this guidance can lead to the invalidation of your travel insurance.

The airspace over Israel is currently closed, and flights from the UK to Tel Aviv or Jerusalem are suspended.

The Foreign Office has emphasized: “The situation has the potential to escalate rapidly, presenting significant risks, including missile strikes. For the latest information, consult the Home Front Command (accessible in Israel only) and adhere to instructions from the Israeli authorities.”

“Restrictions may be implemented with little notice. If you are located in the occupied Palestinian territories (OPTs) and lack access to Home Front Command resources, follow local instructions, including those from the Palestinian Civil Defence (dial 102 or visit www.pcd.ps or check their Facebook page).”

“Be cautious of falling debris from intercepted missiles over Israel and the OPTs. If you come across any remnants, vacate the area immediately and inform local officials.”

If you are currently in Israel, stay updated through local news and follow guidance on the Israeli Home Front Command website; assistance can also be obtained by calling 104 (this service is limited to individuals in Israel). People in the UK worried about relatives in the region can reach out to the Foreign Office at +44 (0) 207 008 5000.

On June 16, the Foreign Office urged British nationals still in Israel or the OPTs to register their presence.

Safety Considerations for Travel to Jerusalem and Tel Aviv

Traveling against the advice of the Foreign Office typically results in immediate invalidation of standard travel insurance, which may complicate any consular assistance needed while on the ground.

If you had plans to visit Israel, contact your airline or travel agency. Many trips are likely to have already been cancelled, entitling you to a full refund. Your travel insurance may also assist with any incurred expenses.