Israel: US government issues security advisory for multiple areas in Jerusalem as of April 20

Event

The US Embassy in Jerusalem issued an advisory on April 20 recommending that travelers in the city remain vigilant due to the recent militant attacks in Israel and the near-daily clashes between security forces and Palestinians in recent days. The embassy has also prohibited US government employees and their family members from entering the Old City after dark and on Fridays. The measure also applies to Damascus, Herod's, and Lions' Gates.

Context

The US advisory follows a similar, albeit more robust recommendation issued by the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) April 14. The FCDO's advisory warned travelers to avoid all but essential travel to the city of Nablus in the West Bank, as well as to the city of Jenin, the towns of Burqin and Arranah in Jenin Governorate, and Joseph's Tomb, in addition to the Balata and New Askar refugee camps, among other locations in Israel and the Palestinian territories.

The US and British travel advisories come amid daily clashes between Israeli security personnel and Palestinians in Jerusalem and the West Bank. Heightened tensions between Israeli forces and Palestinians follow a number of high-profile militant attacks in Israel which have resulted in the deaths of 14 people, with dozens of others being injured. Israeli forces killed a Palestinian assailant in Jaffa after an April 7 terror attack in Tel Aviv which killed three people and wounded several others. The attack in Tel Aviv came in the wake of three militant attacks in Be'er Sheva, Bnei Brak, and Hadera in late March.

Advice

Minimize exposure to places of worship, security installations, markets, and other crowded locations. Confirm the availability of transport and allow additional time to reach destinations. Follow all police instructions. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.