Israel, PT: Heightened security to persist in Israel, Palestinian Territories through late May /update 4

Event

Heightened security will almost certainly persist across Israel and the Palestinian Territories through late May despite the tenuous ceasefire agreement that ended cross-border fire between Israeli forces and Gazan militants May 21. While active hostilities have seemingly concluded, unrest remains widespread throughout Israeli and Palestinian communities. The recent escalation in violence followed an Israeli court decision to evict dozens of Palestinians from their homes in East Jerusalem's Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood to make way for Israeli residents. The case of Sheikh Jarrah has garnered much attention and prompted violent demonstrations in Jerusalem’s Old City. The US Embassy in Jerusalem issued a security alert May 25 stating that US government employees and their families are prohibited from entering Jerusalem's Old City through Damascus Gate until further notice due to the potential for security incidents.

Palestinian demonstrations - triggered by the pending evictions in Sheikh Jarrah - will likely persist amid heightened tensions. Protests have mainly occurred in Sheikh Jarrah, near Damascus Gate, and areas surrounding the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound; however, associated demonstrations have also occurred in various areas of the West Bank and Arab-Israeli communities within Israel. Israeli security forces have used tear gas, rubber bullets, stun grenades, and other riot control measures to disperse demonstrators. Hundreds of people have been injured amid recurring clashes in the vicinity of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. Further clashes between protesters and security forces are likely, especially if protesters are overly disruptive or fail to adhere to police instructions. Additionally, the threat of lone-wolf attacks perpetrated by Palestinian assailants against Israeli interests, notably security forces or settlers within the West Bank and Jerusalem, is heightened amid the unrest.

Clashes between members of the Jewish and Arab communities will also likely persist across Israel, especially in mixed-population towns, through the end of May. Since unrest first erupted May 10, violent demonstrations and riots have occurred in several cities, including Tiberias, Haifa, Jaffa, Bat Yam, Acre, and Lod. Multiple attempted lynchings have also allegedly taken place in various parts of the country. Widespread incidents of vandalism and arson have occurred, targeting synagogues, mosques, local businesses, and cars, among other properties. Rioters have also reportedly thrown stones and firebombs in clashes with security forces. While Israeli authorities have increased security measures nationwide and arrested more than 1,550 suspects following the violence, the possibility of further demonstrations and clashes remains.

Although cross-border violence between the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Gaza-based militants has subsided following the recent ceasefire agreement, tensions remain high. Gazan militants launched over 4,000 rocket and mortar rounds toward communities in southern and central Israel, including Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, May 10-21. The IDF responded with hundreds of retaliatory airstrikes against militant targets in Gaza. The most recent bout of violence constituted the most intense cross-border fire between Israeli and Palestinian forces in almost a decade. At least 12 Israelis and over 230 Palestinians were killed amid the conflict, with over 1,500 others injured. While the ceasefire has held to date, the possibility of further violence remains.

Advice

Consider avoiding the city of Jerusalem, notably the areas of Sheikh Jarrah and the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, through at least late May due to the potential for violence. Exercise increased caution near any demonstrations that may materialize. Confirm the availability of transport and allow additional time to reach destinations in Jerusalem, as well as throughout Israel and the West Bank. Heed the instructions of security personnel.

Monitor local media and abide by security force directives. If possible, avoid areas within 5 km (3 miles) of the Gaza buffer zone until confirmation has been received that the security situation has improved. In the event that the ceasefire fails and incoming mortar rounds or rockets are reported in southern Israel, or warning sirens sound in the general vicinity, report to the nearest bomb shelter and await further instructions from authorities. If there is no shelter nearby, stay indoors and away from windows and exterior walls. If possible, move to a ground floor or basement.

Individuals or entities operating in the Gaza Strip are advised to avoid known Hamas security force locations, which are common targets for Israeli retaliatory airstrikes. Establish a thorough communication plan to ensure rapid accountability for all personnel operating in southern Israel and the Gaza Strip.

Exercise a heightened level of caution in Israel and the Palestinian Territories. Avoid all demonstrations and heed the directives of the authorities. Monitor local media and liaise with trusted contacts for updates.