The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.
There’s a high threat of civil unrest in the Palestinian Territories. International events and political developments may lead to protests and demonstrations, which can turn violent. Be alert, avoid demonstrations and monitor the media for the latest updates.
Security forces and civil unrest
Tension have increased between Israel and Iran in recent years. This mostly relates to events in Syria. There have been several military clashes. This includes missiles being fired towards Israeli controlled territory.
Tensions remain high and more conflict is possible.
Military operations
During military operations, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) may declare an area a closed military zone.
If authorities find civilians in this zone, they can arrest, detain or deport them.
Local city government websites keep lists of public bomb shelters and other emergency information.
The IDF Home Front Command is responsible for managing emergencies, including planning and advising on how to deal with rocket attacks. In an emergency contact the Home Front Command on 104 (the hotline has English-speaking operators).
West Bank
The security situation in the West Bank is unpredictable, with continuing tensions and violence between Israelis and Palestinians. This includes in Bethlehem, Hebron, Jericho and Ramallah.
Stone-throwing and violence are common, especially around settlements and military checkpoints.
Tensions can arise at short notice. Violence happens in tourist areas.
There’s an especially high rate of violence in and around Hebron.
Don’t enter closed military zones, even where these have been in place for a long time, such in as the old city of Hebron.
Large and sometimes violent demonstrations have happened in the West Bank. Foreigners have been injured.
Israeli authorities may close crossings to the West Bank on local holidays or due to security incidents.
Israeli security operations happen in the West Bank. This can include military action. If you’re in the West Bank during military action or civil unrest, stay in a safe place indoors. Monitor the media for information.
Authorities impose strict security measures after terrorist attacks. These may severely affect the movement of Palestinians, including Australian dual nationals.
Contact the Australian Embassy in Tel Aviv or the Australian Representative Office in Ramallah for assistance. See Local contacts
Gaza unrest
Gaza is extremely dangerous. The security situation is unpredictable and conflict could happen at any time without warning.
Many rockets and mortars have been fired from Gaza into Israel. Some have landed in populated areas.
March and November 2019 saw several long-range rocket attacks into central Israel.
November 2018, May 2019 and February 2020 saw significant rounds of rocket fire into parts of southern Israel.
During the most significant military operation in Gaza in July-August 2014, more than 4,000 rockets were fired from Gaza into Israel.
Similar incidents and Israeli military responses are expected.
More conflict between Israel and militants in Gaza would greatly increase risks to your safety and security.
The Australian Government may not be able to provide consular assistance in Gaza.
Large demonstrations and threats to Western interests have happened in Gaza. They are sometimes violent. Foreigners have been injured.
Demonstrations have occured in Gaza along the border with Israel, leading to large numbers of casualties from clashes between protesters and Israeli security forces. Improvised explosive devices have been found along the perimeter.
Authorities have stopped some international media personnel from leaving Gaza.
There’s a threat of rocket attack and spillover from civil unrest along the Gaza and Israel border.
If you’re caught in military action or civil unrest, stay in a safe place indoors. Monitor the media for updates.
Some foreigners have been kidnapped.
The Australian Government’s longstanding policy is that it doesn’t make payments or concessions to kidnappers.
More information:
Waters off Gaza
Israel has a naval blockade in place. Don’t join others to try to break the naval blockade.
The Israeli Navy patrols territorial waters and the shared water border zone.
People have tried to break the naval blockade along the coast of Gaza. Their actions caused injury, death, arrest and deportation of foreigners, including Australians.