Israel, PT: Tensions to remain elevated in East Jerusalem and West Bank through at least late November /update 6

Event

Tensions will almost certainly remain heightened in East Jerusalem and the West Bank through at least late November amid a series of deadly attacks, clashes, and Israeli security operations in Israel and the Palestinian Territories. Israeli security forces continue to launch frequent raids in the West Bank in response to attacks on Israeli settlers and security forces.

Palestinian demonstrations and strikes are also almost certain over the coming weeks, particularly in the West Bank, to denounce Israeli security operations, associated clashes, and the arrests and killings of Palestinians. Further clashes between Palestinians and Israeli security forces are likely in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, some of which will probably result in the injury of dozens of Palestinians. An uptick in armed Palestinian attacks against Israeli individuals and interests is likely in the West Bank as Palestinian militant groups continue to advocate violence; attacks are also possible in East Jerusalem and across Israel. Israeli settlers may stage further demonstrations and clash with Palestinian communities in the West Bank, prompting retaliatory Palestinian attacks near Israeli settlements.

Additionally, cross-border exchanges of fire between the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Gaza-based militants are possible, particularly if there is a further increase in violence between Palestinian protesters and Israeli authorities in East Jerusalem and the West Bank over the coming weeks. Flashpoint areas for the violence have included parts of Jerusalem's Old City (including the Temple Mount/Al-Haram ash-Sharif compound, Damascus Gate, Lion's Gate, Herod's Gate, and Chain Gate), as well as Jenin, Nablus, Hebron, Palestinian refugee camps, and Israeli checkpoints and settlements in the West Bank.

Advice

Exercise caution while operating in East Jerusalem and the West Bank. Avoid all demonstrations. Seek updated information on security conditions and possible movement restrictions in East Jerusalem and the West Bank before traveling. Heed the advice of local authorities. Avoid loitering near security checkpoints and main entrances to hotels, restaurants, or government buildings. Do not attempt to bypass security checkpoints without authorities' permission.