Israel, PT: Increased security, transport disruptions likely ahead of and during Memorial Day observance and Independence Day holiday period April 24-26

Event

Authorities will heighten security in key areas of Israel and the Palestinian Territories ahead of and during the Memorial Day observance and Independence Day celebrations April 24-26. Memorial Day, or Yom HaZikaron, which is observed in remembrance of Israel's fallen soldiers, will begin on the evening of April 24 and continue through the evening of April 25. A siren will sound across Israel for Memorial Day at 20:00 April 24. Another siren will sound the following day at 11:00. Independence Day celebrates Israel's declaration of independence in 1948; it will begin on the evening of April 25 and continue through the evening of April 26. Elevated security measures could remain in place through April 27. Security forces will also increase patrols near popular tourist sites, public transport hubs, and other crowded areas ahead of and during the holiday period. Roadblocks and checkpoints are likely in Israel at the entrances to major cities and other heavily populated areas. Security measures have been heightened in light of a wave of terror attacks in Israel that began in March 2022.

As part of the elevated security posture, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has announced that it will close all border crossings to the West Bank and Gaza Strip for the holiday period. The measure will begin at 17:00 on April 24 and will remain in force through 11:59 on April 26. The military routinely closes border crossings between Israel and the Palestinian Territories for festivals and national holidays. While exceptions may be made to allow passage for urgent medical cases or other humanitarian needs, freedom of movement to and from the Palestinian Territories will be extremely limited.

Israeli security forces will be on high alert across Israel, the West Bank, and near the Gaza Strip. Palestinians may clash with Israeli security forces at checkpoints throughout the West Bank. Clashes between Israeli settlers and Palestinians in the region are also possible. Israeli officials could also 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 likely reduce hours of operation.

Advice

Allow extra time for travel ahead of and 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.