Israel, PT: Increased security likely ahead of and during US president's visit July 13-15

Event

Authorities in Israel and the West Bank will significantly increase security ahead of and during US President Joseph R. Biden's visit July 13-15. Biden will meet with Israeli leaders and leaders from the Palestinian Authority (PA).

Biden is expected to arrive at Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) the afternoon of July 13. He will subsequently travel to Jerusalem for events at the Yad Vashem memorial, the Waldorf Astoria Hotel, the King David Hotel, and the Israeli President's Residence July 14. On July 15, the US president will visit the August Victoria Hospital in East Jerusalem before traveling to Bethlehem in the West Bank.

Activist groups, particularly within the West Bank, could organize demonstrations in opposition to US foreign policy in the region and its support of Israel; clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

While there have been no specific, announced threats to the visit, large gatherings of US, Israeli, and PA leaders could pose an attractive target for militant groups. Security forces will respond swiftly and aggressively to any perceived threat. The security operation for Biden's visit will include about 16,000 police officers, border troops, and volunteers. Authorities will close the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv Highway (Route 1) between the Shapirim Interchange and the entrance to Jerusalem, with traffic in both directions being diverted to other thoroughfares. Other temporary road closures are also possible as authorities facilitate Biden's movements. Authorities could also temporarily close airspace around Tel Aviv as the US president arrives and departs the city; flight delays are possible at Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport (TLV).

Advice

Heed all instructions of local authorities. Plan for localized traffic disruptions and flight delays. Allow additional time to reach destinations and confirm meetings near planned event venues.