Israel, PT: Heightened security to persist in Israel, Palestinian Territories through late May /update 1

Event

Heightened security will almost certainly persist across Israel and the Palestinian Territories through late May. Tensions remain heightened following clashes between Palestinians and Israeli security forces in Jerusalem and persistent rocket fire from Gazan militants in early- to mid-May. The recent escalation of violence began following demonstrations against an Israeli court decision to evict dozens of Palestinians from their homes in East Jerusalem’s Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood to make way for Israeli residents. At least 300 people were injured May 10 amid violent clashes in the vicinity of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in East Jerusalem; more than 250 people were injured May 8-9 in similar clashes. Israeli security forces have used tear gas, rubber bullets, stun grenades, and other riot control measures to disperse demonstrators. The unrest, which was initially concentrated in Sheikh Jarrah, deteriorated late May 7 when Israeli police in riot gear stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound during evening prayers.

Tensions will likely remain heightened across Israel and the Palestinian Territories through mid-to-late May. Rocket alert sirens have been sounding in Israel's Southern District, along the border with Gaza and Jerusalem. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that over 100 rockets were fired by Gazan militants toward Israel, with at least seven targeting Jerusalem. While most rocket attacks will focus on the border region, some rounds will likely target major cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Attacks could temporarily disrupt air transport or lead to short-term airport closures.

The rocket attacks occurred after an ultimatum issued by the Gaza-based militant group Hamas expired; the group demanded that all Israeli troops leave the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood and the Temple Mount by 18:00 May 10 following recent violence. The IDF responded to the rocket attacks with retaliatory airstrikes against Hamas targets in Gaza; the Gazan Ministry of Health reported that the airstrikes have killed at least 20 people and wounded some 65 others. The Israeli military will almost certainly conduct retaliatory airstrikes in response to further attacks by Gazan militants.

Meanwhile, Palestinian demonstrations - which have been triggered by the pending eviction of several Palestinian families from the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood of East Jerusalem - will likely persist. Protests have been primarily occurring in Sheikh Jarrah, near Damascus Gate, and areas surrounding the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. Further clashes between protesters and security forces are likely, especially if protesters are overly disruptive or fail to adhere to police instructions. The US Embassy in Israel issued a security alert May 10 warning of additional protests and violence in the vicinity of Jerusalem’s Old City. The embassy has forbidden its personnel from visiting the Old City through 07:00 May 16 and advises people to remain indoors from 19:00-08:00 during this time period. Clashes have also been reported between Israeli security forces and Palestinian demonstrators in various areas of the West Bank and Arab-Israeli communities within Israel. Localized transport disruptions are likely near any demonstrations that may materialize.

Israeli authorities have increased security measures nationwide in light of the escalating violence. The Tel Aviv Municipality reported late May 10 that it would open public bomb shelters if rocket fire targets the city. Furthermore, the IDF Home Front Command reported that only schools and businesses with accessible bomb shelters would open in central Israel May 11. The IDF has also deployed reinforcements to the Gaza Division in the event of further escalation.

Advice

Consider avoiding the city of Jerusalem, notably the areas of Sheikh Jarrah and the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, through at least mid-May due to the potential for violence. Exercise increased caution near any demonstrations that may materialize. Confirm the availability of transport and allow additional time to reach destinations in Jerusalem, as well as throughout Israel and the West Bank. Heed the instructions of security personnel.

If possible, avoid areas within 5 km (3 miles) of the Gaza buffer zone until the security situation improves. If incoming mortar rounds or rockets are reported in southern Israel or warning sirens sound in the general vicinity, report to the nearest bomb shelter and await further instructions from authorities. If there is no shelter nearby, stay indoors, away from windows and exterior walls. If possible, move to a ground floor or basement.

Individuals or entities operating in the Gaza Strip are advised to avoid known Hamas security force locations, which are common targets for Israeli retaliatory airstrikes. Establish a thorough communication plan to ensure rapid accountability for all personnel operating in southern Israel and the Gaza Strip.

Exercise a heightened level of caution in Israel and the Palestinian Territories. Avoid all demonstrations and heed the directives of the authorities. Monitor local media and liaise with trusted contacts for updates.