Israel: Increased security and transport disruptions likely during Memorial Day and Independence Day celebrations May 3-6

Event

Authorities will increase security in key areas of Israel and the Palestinian Territories for Memorial Day and Independence Day celebrations May 3-6. Memorial Day will begin the evening of May 3 and continue through the evening of May 4; Independence Day will begin immediately after, starting the evening of May 4 and extending through the evening of May 5.

As part of the elevated security posture, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has announced the closure of all border crossings to the West Bank and Gaza Strip from 15:00 May 3 to 00:01 May 6. The military routinely closes border crossings between Israel and the Palestinian Territories during festivals and national holidays. Authorities will also likely increase security along the Green Line (the 1967 border with the West Bank). Exceptions will be in place for urgent medical cases or other humanitarian needs.

Israeli security forces will be on high alert across Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip through May 6, increasing patrols near popular tourist sites, public transport hubs, and other crowded areas. In Israel, roadblocks and checkpoints at entrances to major cities and other heavily populated areas will likely prompt traffic disruptions nationwide. Palestinians may clash with Israeli security forces at checkpoints throughout the West Bank. Skirmishes between Israeli settlers and Palestinians in the region are also possible. Israeli officials could restrict access to the Temple Mount/Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem during the holiday period. Many businesses in Israel will close in observance of the holidays; banks and government offices will probably reduce hours of operation.

Advice

Allow extra time for travel during the holiday period. Ensure all travel and vehicle documents are in order. Heed the advice of authorities, including officers at security checkpoints. Avoid loitering near security checkpoints and main entrances to hotels, restaurants, or government buildings. Seek updated information on security conditions and possible movement restrictions in the West Bank and East Jerusalem before traveling. Do not attempt to bypass security checkpoints; even an accidental breach of the security cordon near a checkpoint may prompt Israeli security forces to respond aggressively.