Israel, Palestinian Territories: Further civil unrest possible in parts of Jerusalem, East Jerusalem, and Jaffa through late April

Event

Further disruptive protests are possible in parts of Jerusalem near Palestinian communities and in Jaffa near Tel Aviv in the coming days following recent civil unrest. Palestinians have protested against COVID-19 gathering restrictions during Ramadan and clashed with Israeli security personnel over several days, most recently near the Old City in Jerusalem and at the nearby Qalandiya checkpoint overnight April 23/24. During the evening of April 22/23, anti-Arab and Palestinian protesters gathered near Damascus Gate. Confrontations between various groups and security personnel resulted in dozens of injuries. Disruptive demonstrations by Arab Israelis in Jaffa were most recently reported April 23.

The US Embassy in Israel issued a security alert April 23, warning of protests and violence in Jerusalem near the Old City, City Center, and in parts of North and East Jerusalem. The embassy noted that recent incidents of violence included vandalism, rock-throwing, vehicle burning, and attacks on passersby. The embassy has warned that unrest may persist and has advised its personnel to avoid the impacted areas.

Heightened security is likely in the recently impacted areas in the coming days. Protests, which are likely to escalate during the evening or early morning, may result in additional clashes. Ground travel disruptions are likely near all protest locations. There is an elevated incidental threat to persons in the vicinity of demonstrations.

Advice

Exercise caution in the impacted areas, particularly during the evening and early morning. Avoid all protests. Reconfirm the status of road routes before departure. Monitor local media and liaise with trusted contacts for further updates.