tel aviv israel safe to travel

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Information for U.S. Citizens in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza

U.S. citizens should heed the  Travel Advisory  for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. The U.S. Embassy continues to closely monitor the dynamic security situation in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. There are active military operations and active rocket and mortar fire in Gaza and the Gaza periphery.  Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Violence can occur in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza without warning. If you require emergency assistance while in Israel, the West Bank or Gaza, contact the  U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem  by email ([email protected]).

Individuals seeking to depart Gaza  through the Rafah crossing into Egypt should monitor the  Palestinian General Authority for Crossings and Borders’ Facebook Page  for a list of those approved to cross. U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or immediate family (as listed below) who desire our assistance and have not already provided their information to the Department of State, please email U.S. Embassy Jerusalem at  [email protected]  with a copy of the individual’s travel document as well as an explanation or proof of relationship.

The U.S. government does not control the crossing lists nor determine who is permitted to depart Gaza or enter Egypt. Individuals must assess their own safety and risks in attempting to cross the border. Individuals permitted to enter Egypt will likely receive a 72-hour Egyptian visa; all those who cross should have a plan for onward travel from Egypt in this timeframe. U.S. citizens, LPRs and their immediate family members who successfully enter Egypt and require further consular assistance should contact the  U.S. Embassy in Cairo  via the  U.S. Citizens Services Navigator .  Individuals may apply for a U.S. visa at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate; U.S. immigration laws and regulations will apply.

If a name has appeared on a crossing list since November 1, we understand those individuals will be permitted to cross as long as the border remains open for foreign nationals. We urge U.S. citizens, LPRs, and their immediate family members who have appeared on one of these lists to cross as soon as possible – there is no guarantee the border will remain open. We continue to work in partnership with Egypt and Israel towards safe passage for U.S. citizens, LPRs, and their immediate family members.

Immediate family members of U.S. citizens include:

• unmarried children under the age of 21, and
• parents of U.S. citizens.

If the U.S. citizen is under 21, immediate family will also include any siblings who are also unmarried and under 21.

Immediate family members of LPRs include:

• unmarried children under 21 years of age.

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Is Tel Aviv Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Israel : Safety by City

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Tel Aviv is the second-largest city in  Israel .

Because it is the most liberal city in Israel, and one of the most gay-friendly cities in the world, it becomes famous for the nickname “The Miami Of The Middle East”.

Tel Aviv was founded in 1909 and the 60 Tel Aviv founders started building the first mid-eastern urban center with running water.

Tel Aviv grew steadily and became the center of culture, commerce and light industry – the Israeli metropolis with 3.1 million people.

Tel Aviv was declared a cultural  UNESCO World Heritage site  and due to the style which emphasized simplicity and the white color, it has got a nickname the White City.

• Warnings & Dangers in Tel Aviv

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Tel Aviv can be considered an overall safe city in terms of crime. However, frequent terrorist attacks, making it more dangerous than it is.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Drivers need to be watchful since there are numerous car accidents. Make sure that you get insured before trying to drive in Tel Aviv. It is not safe to hitchhike either. Public transport is safe and reliable, as long as you are vigilant when it comes to thieves that frequently operate there. Be aware of the fact that public transport might be the target number one among terrorists. The bus drivers in Tel Aviv speak and understand English, and will answer questions about the destination of their bus.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

Since there are some areas where pickpocketing is frequent, tourists should not leave belongings unattended. Serious crime is generally not a problem in Israel since most visits to Tel Aviv are trouble-free, but the theft of passports, credit cards, and valuables from public beaches is common.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Tel Aviv is located in the area prone to seismic activity, so earthquakes are possible. During extreme rain, the flood might happen. Drivers are advised to monitor local weather reports before coming to Tel Aviv by car.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

When the mugging and kidnapping risk is in question, Tel Aviv is pretty safe. However, kidnapping is an issue near the border with Egypt.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Some of the most active terrorist groups are Gaza-based organizations and numerous terrorist attacks occurred in the region recently, so the risk is extremely high. In case you happen to be in the middle of a terrorist attack, you need to follow advice from local authorities.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Scam risks in Tel Aviv have not been reported.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Women can feel relatively safe in Tel Aviv, except in one district which should not be visited even during the day. All the other parts of the city are trouble-free. Women need to keep in mind local expectations regarding modest clothing, like long skirts, long-sleeved shirts, and trousers. The scarf is obligatory when entering the Holy sites.

• So... How Safe Is Tel Aviv Really?

The security situation in Israel is tense and unpredictable.

Tel Aviv remains a very safe city to visit, but travelers need to be aware of the possibility and high risk of terrorist threats.

The local police are generally very friendly.

Pickpockets, like in every big city, operate at the old and new central bus stations, the beach promenade and bag and bicycle thefts are common.

Crime rates are much lower in Tel Aviv than in most other cities of similar size.

Buses are the best way to tour the city and a very safe way to travel.

Street crime is rare all around Tel Aviv, but late at night, some southern neighborhoods might become dangerous.

The Northern parts, as well as the center, are safe areas in terms of serious crime, but even during the day, there are a lot of pick-pocketers.

Tourist infrastructure in this city is excellent because it is a financial and technological hub of the country and it is very worth visiting.

• How Does Tel Aviv Compare?
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The people from the U.S., Australia, Europe and Canadian have the right to stay in Israel for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. There have been instances where passports have been stamped for entry purposes. If you have any questions about visas or entry into Israel, you should contact the Israel Embassy.

The official currency of Israel is the New Israel Shekel. Be aware that some sellers might give you the old version of the Shekel and these notes have no value. The ATMs accept international cards and money transfer through Western Union to a local Israeli post office normally takes 3-4 hours.

Tel Aviv has a Mediterranean climate characterized by long, hot summers and short winters. The best time to visit the city is summer. Winters are warm and the only snowfall in the city's history occurred once. UV radiation near the beach can be extremely high.

Ben Gurion Airport is the busiest airport in the whole country located 19 km southeast of Tel Aviv. It was named after Israel's first Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion. Some other international airports that can be used when coming to Israel include Eilat-Ramon, Haifa-U. Michaeli and Eilat-Uvda.

Travel Insurance

It is always advisable for travelers to get a travel insurance policy before going abroad, no matter how safe the county they are going to is.

Tel Aviv Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Israel - Safety by City

Explore tel aviv.

• Top 9 Stay-like-A-Local Airbnbs in Tel Aviv
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10 Reviews on Tel Aviv

“Women need to keep in mind local expectations regarding modest clothing, like long skirts, long sleeved shirts and trousers. The scarf is obligatory when entering the Holy sites.” Who wrote this review?? Obviously have never been to TLV. Nobody is “modest” in TLV it is a beach town… Also, in Jerusalem for example scarf is not obligatory really in holy sites and women can AND SHOULD generally wear what the like.

“Extremely high” risk of terror attacks? I think that Paris and London have higher risk of attacks than Tel Aviv. Some facts, which most Tel Avivians will agree upon: – Modesty does not exist in Tel Aviv. – Violent crime does, in very specific areas, which tourists not often visit (me neither). – Taxi driver WILL rip you off. – There’s a risk for new comers to be lost in the Dizengoff Center shopping mall. Some people entered there as kids, lost their way and still live there as adults.

Its safe. Dont read this article

Was in Israel 2019 as a women travelling alone. Never felt safer somewhere else. But damn … i did not know about the dizengoff center. I have to revisit soon. I normally dont visit a city twice for a holiday ( too many on my bucketlist) but Israel is on the list again!!!

As a local I can tell you, tel aviv is the young tourist heaven. Excellent food, beautiful women and men, amazing beach and promenade, pot is allowed and easy to buy.

Having gone to Tel Aviv in 2019, I am not sure I can agree. While it is mostly safe at the heart of the city, there is risk surrounding the entire area. I was advised against going to several different places for safety concerns. I mean this was BY the locals. I don’t know. Maybe it is all about perspective? I didn’t feel unsafe but also wasn’t completely relaxed either.

Lol tel aviv is super safe terrorist attacks is a joke its super rare and happens on times of war.. most of the time just some dude running with knife yelling in arabic and gets shot after a few seconds from the many police officers, or mandatory soldiers. No place safer.

The Man who wrote this never visited Tel Aviv

There is no safer than Tel Aviv when speaking of terrorist attacks, Paris and London have a much higher probability.

Pickpocketing only at the beach

Tel Aviv is safe!

Tel Aviv (and Israel as a country in general) is one of the safest places in the world. How many terrorist incidents have been in Tel Aviv during the recent years? There was a shooting incident and 3 people were killed but it happened once during the last 6 years (and before that there was a similar incident happened once in a decade maybe). The security forces in Israel are the one of the best in the world and they work 24/7 to maintain security. Crime is low and you can walk the streets of Tel Aviv even late at night without fear

best city in the world,

as a teen living here for 17 years, there’s no better place to hang around, always near a beach, parties everywhere at night, beautiful rebel styled women, and rich and wealthy men, the language is beautiful and easy to learn and at night the whole city turns into a place to live your best life, been in 14 other capital cities like Paris and Madrid, and it doesn’t beat the vivid and teen feeling of Tel Aviv, occasional terrorist attacks but strong army and nothing to worry about, this city changes your life for the better and gives you a different view in life, maybe it’s why it’s one of the most expensive cities too.

definately worth a visit.

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Article Contents

• Tel Aviv : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Home » Middle East » Tel Aviv

Is Tel Aviv Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

Tel Aviv is Israel’s vibrant urban culture-capital. A seaside destination that combines centuries-old history with cool 1930s architecture, a pumping nightlife, and an amazing food scene.

It may generally be thought of as the Middle East, but it’s also a Mediterranean destination sanguine bars and beaches to chill out on. If you have never visited before, then chances you will be pleasantly surprised by this contemporary, cultural capital.

However Tel Aviv is in Israel and is part of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. Concerns around terrorism and attacks from Gaza, for example, may also come to mind when you are planning a trip here – it’s only natural.

We are here to put your mind at ease. We have put together this huge guide to the safety of Tel Aviv, not to scare you or put you off, but to give you the straight facts and equip you with all the travel tips and information you’ll need to have an awesome time in this cool city.

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How Safe is Tel Aviv? (Our take)

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Staying in Tel Aviv is a lot of fun. Behind the attention-grabbing headlines, Tel Aviv is known as “the city that never sleeps” for its 24-hour culture. It has even been dubbed the “gay capital” of the Middle East. It sure is a fun-loving, open-minded city.

That does not mean that there are not issues to consider on a trip to Tel Aviv. After all, it is a big city and like many big cities comes with the usual selection of things to watch out for. Petty theft, while not a big problem, does occur and it is not unheard of for credit cards or passports to go missing. Theft from bags left unattended on beaches an is fairly common.

Public transport and transport hubs, especially on the outskirts of the city, require greater vigilance and

On top of that, there are cultural and religious sensitivities to be aware of. For example, don’t take pictures of people in Muslim and Orthodox Jewish areas. Also, note that a LOT of things totally shut down on the Shabbat (Friday night and Saturday).

The fact that there are underground bomb shelters dotted around Tel Aviv should tell you something. In recent years there have been threats of rockets fired from Gaza. It shouldn’t worry you though, people who live in Tel Aviv are generally unaffected, and unperturbed, by this apparent threat, and many of its citizens go about their daily business, walking to work and then partying the night away.

Most visits to Tel Aviv are trouble-free. In fact, given its location and situation, Tel Aviv is surprisingly safe and laid-back.

Now, let’s get deeper into the city and uncover how safe it is by looking at the statistics.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is Tel Aviv Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Tel Aviv. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to Tel Aviv.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

Though it may be thought to occupy a precarious geological location, Tel Aviv is a big attraction to tourists. Many people who arrive in Israel to visit the historic sights will, usually, at some point find their way through Tel Aviv.

Tourism is one of the major sources of income for Israel and they take it very seriously. In 2017, the country welcomed 3.6 million tourists – a huge 25% growth on the previous year – and the sector contributed NIS 20 billion to the economy.

Fast-forward to 2019. It is estimated that around 4.7 million visitors came to Israel, beating the record-breaking numbers of the previous year (4.12 million). Every year has seen a significant rise in tourists, making each year a record-breaker – in spite of the country’s perceived problems.

Tel Aviv is the country’s financial and technological capital and according to the UN, also its diplomatic capital. Home to 3.9 million inhabitants, it is estimated that 44% of Israel’s population live in Tel Aviv.

According to Israeli police, in terms of crime, murders have been continually decreasing. It’s claimed that in 2018, 103 people were the victims of homicide (down from 136 in 2017); a rate of 1.14 per 100,000 inhabitants. Looking at Tel Aviv away from the general overview of Israel, crime is relatively low: Gun crime is negligible, as is mugging and other violent crime.

That said, on the 2019 Global Peace Index (which measures the general safety of 163 countries) Israel ranked 146 – just below Mali (145) and just above Lebanon (147) putting it at the lower end of the “Low State of Peace” bracket.

Though it is situated in a country that may not be regarded as “safe”, Tel Aviv feels like any Mediterranean city and is statistically one of the best places to visit in Israel.

It is difficult to say whether Tel Aviv is safe right now, as the country is in a constant state of conflict, and has been for decades, with both Hezbollah in Lebanon, and Hamas in Gaza .

Tensions can rise every now and then creating pockets of small-scale war, with rockets fired over borders.

In the region in general, there have been increased tensions. In January 2020, a U.S. airstrike in Baghdad killed an Iranian general, sparking anti-Western sentiment across the Middle East.

Previous to this (November 2019), more than 60 rockets were fired from Gaza into southern Israel, with at least two being intercepted over Tel Aviv by the city’s “Iron Dome” missile defense system.

Ongoing tensions, culminating with the firing of rockets, can lead the Israeli Home Front Command to close workplaces and schools, including in Tel Aviv. This is the case at the time of writing this article, for example.

The back and forth of projectile fire between Israel and Gaza can affect Tel Aviv. Warning sirens will sound in the case of an imminent emergency.

Essentially it is a fragile situation that can change quickly.

Protests also affect Tel Aviv, and can feature violent clashes between protesters, and law enforcement.  Bystanders and tourists are also sometimes caught up in it all. Route 443, between Tel Aviv to Jerusalem also sees such incidents occur.

All these issues are subject to change – sometimes tensions are high, sometimes they are low. Checking the latest developments in Israel’s conflict, and the Middle East in general, maybe a good idea before you travel.

For the most part, however, Tel Aviv and its citizens remain calm and carry on with their lives as per usual. In fact, that the city is referred to as “The Bubble” for how different it feels – and is – from the rest of the country.

To stay up to date with the situation, you should get yourself a local sim card , and turn on notifications for a local news station. Staying connected is another way to stay safe!

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Tel Aviv is a bubble of a city. It remains relatively unaffected by the conflicts. it is both a safe city to travel to and a fun one at that. However, despite how good it sounds, it is still probably a very city different from the one you live in – or different from the cities you are used to. Here are some tips specially curated for staying safe in Tel Aviv to help you have a great time without worrying;

• Be sensitive – NOT voicing your views on the conflict, being aware of religious sensitivities, and generally being respectful is a good way to travel in Tel Aviv
• Pay attention around Religious holidays – There can be civil unrest and increased tension around Jewish holidays, after Friday prayers and other religious holidays
• Be vigilant at large gatherings – As with above, even the famous Pride Parade has seen rising tensions. Extra vigilance is always a good idea
• Don’t leave things unattended at the beach – Things do, and will, go missing if you leave them unwatched
• Limit the amount of money you carry around with you – The less you have, the less you could potentially lose
• Keep your passport close – There is a risk of your passport details being stolen, so don’t hand it over to anybody else (even Israeli police); only do so if absolutely necessary
• Carry copies of your ID with you at all times including the card they give you at immigration
• Monitor media reports – This will keep you up to date with travel advice, what is happening in the region, and in Israel
• Careful what you photograph – You shouldn’t be snapping pics of military/police personnel and installations, and be sensitive of photographing people in Muslim and Orthodox Jewish areas
• Don’t do any drugs – If you are caught in possession, penalties for smuggling/trafficking are severe
• Know what to do when you hear an air raid siren – Public underground bomb shelters called miklat can be found all over Tel Aviv. Strengthened rooms called mamad can be found in some buildings, too
• Dress to fit in – Depending on where you are in the city, what you’re wearing should adhere to local standards; an ultra-religious area may find what you wear offensive. This will also help you look less like a tourist
• Get a sim card – If your phone doesn’t work, make sure it does! A sim card will help you get around and keep in touch with people back home, amongst other things
• Learn a little Hebrew – Most people speak English, but knowing some phrases can help you get by
• Know that the weekend is different in Israel – Lots of shops are closed on Saturday, but Sunday is business as usual! You should be aware of this when making travel plans. Public transport stops on Shabbat.

Any traveller is going to be concerned with how they keep their money safe. Whether you are worried about losing money, or having it stolen from you, it safe to say that it is an important part of travel.

A simple solution to keeping your money safe in Tel Aviv, as with anywhere in the world, is a money belt.

A money belt will allow you to keep your money safe without having to worry about it going missing or being stolen from you.

Some money belts, however, aren’t as good as others; we think that they can look obvious when worn under clothing, and can be pretty uncomfortable sometimes, too.

The Pacsafe Money Belt is our best bet. It’s affordable, it looks and acts like a belt, and it’s sturdy – what more could you ask for out of a money belt!

Not only does this money belt look and act like a regular belt, but it is sturdy and affordable too. All you have to do is use the secret zipper pocket on the belt to stash your cash for the day and your money will be safe and sound.

Tel Aviv is the perfect place for solo travel. People here are open, friendly, helpful and will always be happy to give you any advice you might need.

It’s also a great place to join in with everyone else, mixing and mingling and partying till the early hours, then hanging out at a coffee shop after you’ve woken up late – just like everybody else.

Still, we have some tips for solo travellers in Tel Aviv to keep you on the straight and narrow.

• You should definitely do research when it comes to accommodation. You will want to find somewhere that suits your travel type, works well for you, and is secure. Read reviews and make sure that you are looking forward to staying at your accommodation, and you aren’t just staying at the cheapest possible place. Abraham Hostels is very sociable.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Lots of people in Tel Aviv speak good English, and most people will be willing and happy to help you if you need directions, need to ask for advice, or feel unsafe.
• Have different ways to access your money. Consider having a couple of bank accounts, and keep the bank cards separately, as losing everything all at once is something that can cause a big headache. An emergency credit card could also really help you out in a pinch.
• Download all of the top apps for Israel before you travel to Tel Aviv. Moovit, which is details the country’s public transport schedules, is a good place to start; other apps to search for include those related to emergency situations, and offline maps apps like Maps.me.
• Join city-centric Facebook groups like Secret Tel Aviv. Here you will be able to get into contact with locals, ask advice and keep up to date with what is going on in the city.
• Make sure that your travel plans and plans for exploring the city aren’t affected by big public holidays like Yom Kippur, which sees the city’s public transport system shut down and virtually empty streets.
• Just because you are travelling solo, it does not mean that you have to go off grid; in fact, doing so could be quite unsafe. Make sure that you keep in touch with people back home, which will be good for your mental health as much as it will stave off homesickness. It is good to hear a familiar voice.
• Do not get crazy drunk. Just because Tel Aviv is well known as a 24 hour party city, it does not mean that you have to get completely wasted. Doing so would only put yourself at risk of making bad decisions, getting lost, or worse.
• If you are at the beach by yourself, and you have your things with you, know that it is not an unusual thing to ask somebody nearby to keep an eye on your things while you go swimming.
• Travel light. Rocking up in Tel Aviv with heavy luggage is not only not a good look, but it will not be a comfortable way to first arrive, leave or get around the city. For example, opt for a light, packable day-pack rather than arriving with multiple bags.

If you are a solo traveller looking to go travel around the best sights of Israel , Tel Aviv should definitely be on your list.

In fact, Israeli people are used to travelling and are used to mingling with people from other places. In addition, Tel Aviv’s hostels are good, and clustered around a fun beachfront area.

For fun and good times, this city is a great option. Just bear in mind that it isn’t a playground where nothing bad can happen, and be sensible, and you’ll be bound to have a good time.

Like many cities in the world, Tel Aviv does, unfortunately, come with a handful of issues when it comes to visiting the city as a solo female traveller.

However, for the most part, Tel Aviv’s laid-back feel and free-spirited mindset make it not just a safe place for women to travel by themselves, but a very fun one at that.

To help you stay extra safe, we’ve put together a mini guide for solo female travelers in Tel Aviv below.

• Never leave your drink unattended and keep an eye on it at all times. Drink spiking does happen in Tel Aviv. Ensure that you keep your drink in your hand to be on the safe side. Don’t accept drinks from strangers, either.
• Do not walk around dark, isolated areas by yourself at night – a deserted beach, or a shortcut home, or anywhere like that. It is not worth the potential risk.
• It is ok to say no and be firm with it. Some men can be a little too forward with the flirting. If you feel that this is unwanted attention – it is normal to be firm with how you respond. Usually, this is harmless, and more annoying than anything, but if you do feel like you are being harassed, then you should make a scene, and find someone nearby who can help you.
• Catcalling does also occur, but it is best to just ignore this and move on.
• Take care when exploring the city even in the daytime. While some neighbourhoods, such as Florentin are cool and accepting, others may not be as nice.
• Do not tell people your personal details: where you are staying, your room number, where you are from, what you’re doing tomorrow, your marital status… No stranger needs to know things like this, and sharing this with strangers could put you in danger.
• Walk confidently. This means walking with purpose, like you know where you are going (even if you don’t). Looking like a lost tourist could make you look vulnerable.
• Meeting up with local ladies will be a cool idea. They will give you the best insight into Tel Aviv’s various scenes and neighbourhoods. Simply searching for female-focused meetups will yield results, as will joining Facebook groups like Host A Sister, which will allow to put out a request to meet up with other women wherever you are in the world.
• Go on a tour if you’re not sure about exploring the city by yourself. It is very important, however, to check reviews of the tour company or guide you may use; only use very reputable, well-recommended companies and guides.
• Let people know what your travel plans are. Send your itinerary to a trusted friend or relative back home, ensuring that you check in with them every couple of days to let them know you’re OK. Lessening other people’s anxiety may make you feel more at ease.
• Keep your phone charged at all times. Going out all day without full charge is not a good idea, and you may want to invest in a spare battery pack that will keep your phone topped up with battery life.

Solo female travellers are going to have an amazing time in Tel Aviv. With music venues, art exhibitions, chilled cafes to people-watch at, and some great dining experiences, you will have no trouble filling your time with cool things to do.

It is always nice to find like-minded people to hang out with and enjoy your time with, though, so think about meetups with locals, or staying in a social hostel. Use the same precautions for yourself as you would anywhere in the world, and you will have a trouble-free time.

Tel Aviv may have a reputation for being a party city, but actually, by day this place is a fantastic hub for families, with museums, parks, cafes and markets to enjoy.

Plenty of young families call the city home and this is something which has helped shape the city into the child-friendly destination it is today. In fact, the city’s ethos largely derives from the importance played by the Hebrew word mischpacha  – family, including distant relatives.

This has not always been the case though.

Rewind a few years and Tel Aviv’s inhabitants were made up of mostly students and retirees. Things have changed, for the better, and investment in green spaces particularly has meant that the city is so much more liveable and enjoyable for families.

Today Tel Aviv is a green city: there are parks galore. The biggest one is Park HaYarkon; situated on the banks of the Yarkon River, it comes complete with rolling grassy areas, a petting zoo and plenty of playgrounds. It’s a great place to make a beeline for if you have active kids.

There is also the spacious Independence Park, for the perfect picnic spot overlooking the sea (plus playgrounds); the Old Port is also good for little ones as this historic area has sandpits and fountains for little ones.

Beaches, of course, are a huge draw to the city; in fact, Tel Aviv boasts 14 kilometres of sandy beaches. Here is where you can enjoy relaxing while your children play in the sand and splash around in the Mediterranean Sea.

There is not too much to worry about in terms of safety when it comes to the beaches; all of the city’s beaches have lifeguards on duty, and the current is not too strong close to shore. The water here is good for all ages to enjoy swimming.

There are, however, occasional “Black Flag” days when it is forbidden to swim. This will often be after a storm.

Some of the best beaches for families are Metzitzim Beach in the north of the city (this has both a seafront playground and a beach bar); Gordon Beach comes with its own swimming pool, plus children’s and babies’ pools.

Be careful with beach days though – the sun can get extremely hot during the summer months and it is not a good idea to be out in the midday sun. It is advised to go the beach either in the morning, or later in the afternoon; make sure to use sunscreen, wear T-shirts and sunhats, too.

For educational things to do in Tel Aviv, there are museums such as Beit Hatfutsot – the Museum of the Jewish People – and the Steinhardt Natural History Museum, which houses more than a million pieces in its collection, or the Tel Aviv Museum of Art with surreal sculptures and colourful paintings to capture children’s imaginations.

Tel Aviv is relatively compact and quite easy to get around with kids in tow. The pavements are well maintained, pushchairs can be used, and even the inner city bus can accommodate pushchairs. In fact, children under 5 ride free on public trains and buses.

When it comes to food, there is not much to worry about. Most places have children’s menus and are used to catering for families; it is not unusual to see families out late into the night, eating meals with their children.

It is best not to visit Tel Aviv with young children in July and August, which is when the country sees its highest humidity and temperatures. Spring time and September – both the “shoulders season” – are good times of year to visit, with pleasant temperatures and plenty of sun.

You don’t need to drive yourself around the city to get around. However, if you do want to self-drive, then you should know that you will need a lot of patience.

Though you don’t need to drive yourself or rent a car, self-driving can be a good option if you want to travel further afield. The highways are, in general, modern and well kept. Signage is in Hebrew, Arabic and English, which makes it easy to navigate.

Though there are frequent accidents owing to erratic driving, in general, Israel on does not have a high rate of road traffic deaths, which indicates that it is not all that dangerous.

Drivers in Tel Aviv, however, don’t have the best of reputations – sometimes it would seem that the road rules are more like suggestions to people than actual rules. The horn will be used a lot, people may flash their lights at you, and there may be a few crazy U-turns to watch out for. You will have to be alert and assertive at all times.

There are speed cameras, though, and it is common to be fined for breaking the speed limit.

A satnav / GPS will help with a lot of the stress of driving in Tel Aviv.

When it comes to parking, there is an additional headache of it being very, very difficult to find a space – especially in downtown Tel Aviv. There is a list of complicated rules and regulations, such as cars only being able to park along blue-and-white kerbs; parking along a red-and-white kerb, on the other hand, is illegal and doing so will get your car towed.

Privately owned car parks can be found around town, but larger public car parks can be found south of Jaffa Port and around the Old Railway Station; at Reading Terminal, near Park HaYarkon, is Tel Aviv’s largest car park and has good bus connections into the centre of town.

There can be parking machines, but these can be complicated to use; the signs accompanying them aren’t always in English.

On the Shabbat (Friday night and Saturday) parking can be easier – many of the city’s car parks remain open and many of its residents head out for day trips.

You can get an app to pay for parking; called Pango, it means you can pay for parking via the app, which can make things easier.

Parking, however, is generally not a great experience.

All in all, driving in Tel Aviv is safe, but it is not really worth it. If driving is your thing, however, then there’s nothing really stopping you – though we recommend that you have some experience of driving abroad, and are a confident driver.

Uber in Tel Aviv is safe.

Gett, an Israeli ride hailing app, works the same as Uber in Israel – meaning it’s only for taxis.

The plus side of both Uber and Gett is that you won’t get messed around by any taxi driver, as the price is what you pay through the app via your bank card. You are also guaranteed a licensed taxi. Other perks include being able to track your ride, and check driver ratings, amongst other things.

Taxis are generally safe in Tel Aviv, but there can be a chance of getting ripped off. There are a few things you should know about taxis in Tel Aviv.

You shouldn’t have any problems with finding a taxi in Tel Aviv, as they are absolutely everywhere. Licensed taxis- regulated by the Israel Transportation Ministry – are usually white, and are usually Mercedes, Skoda or Kia.

Taxis in Tel Aviv will be painted with the word “TAXI” or “MUNIT” on either side of the cab, and will have a yellow light-up sign on the roof. Don’t let the sign confuse you too much, however; differently to other countries’ systems, the taxi sign is always lit up and, confusingly, doesn’t indicate whether or not it’s available.

The thing to look out for is a green light on the base of the main yellow light; if it’s off, there’s someone on board. However, this isn’t always the case, so the best thing to do is just to try to wave down any taxi, regardless of lights.

Taxi drivers, by law, have to use a meter. If a taxi driver tries to scam you by saying the meter’s broken, or it’s cheaper not to use the meter, or whatever, just get out and find another taxi. Tourists can be targets these sorts of shenanigans, and your driver will more than likely suggest a flat fare, which can be much, much higher than the meter would work the fare out at.

If you have found a taxi and you get into it, it is ok to sit in the front with the driver – it is not unusual. Taxi drivers are friendly and will have a chat to you about their city, and what they’re doing.

Note that it is not customary, nor expected, to tip your driver.

If the driver is smoking, picking up other passengers, or you feel you have been scammed, you can make a complaint. Either request a receipt from the end of your taxi trip, or note down the taxi number, driver name and the vehicle registration, and contact the Transportation Ministry Office.

Know that there are two different tariff systems: the lower one operates between 5:30 a.m. and 9 p.m.; the higher one – 25% higher than the lower one – runs between 9 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., as well as on Shabbat (Friday night and Saturday) and Jewish holidays.

There are also charges for specific inter-city routes, for which you can request the designated price.

Everything about taxis in Tel Aviv can be made easier by using one of the aforementioned apps – Gett or Uber – or you could ask your accommodation to call one for you.

There is no metro in Tel Aviv (yet) and public transport in Tel Aviv mostly revolves around buses. These can be a little bit confusing for visitors to the city to get to grips with. However, these are in general safe and fairly straightforward once you have learned how they work.

The Moovit app shows you realtime updates of bus routes if you do get confused with it all.

Tel Aviv buses are operated by a company called Dan , but there are also a number of other smaller companies that traces routes around the city.

You can catch a bus in Tel Aviv from 5 a.m. to 12 a.m., which means party animals can ride them home in the early morning after a night of dancing.

It is relatively cheap to use the bus; a one way ticket costs around NIS 5, and you pay the fare as you get on the bus.

It is a good idea, however, to consider purchasing a one day pass or hofshi yomi – for NIS 13.50, this gets you unlimited travel around the city and its suburbs. There is also the weekly hofshi shavoui (NIS 64).

Alternatively, those of you who will be in the city for a few weeks or months can pick up a Personal Rav Kav. These top-up travel cards can be picked up from a Dan information centre; note that getting one involves paperwork, and requires a photo and a passport.

If you get one from a bus driver – an Anonymous Rav Kav – however, none of that is needed; just ask the driver as you get on.

There are three big bus terminals in Tel Aviv: Central Bus Station, Arlozorov Bus Terminal, and the Carmelit Bus Terminal. You should be careful – especially around the Central Bus Station – late at night and early in the morning. As in many cities, transport hubs don’t tend to be the nicest places. Keep your belongings close to you and try not to look lost.

Trains in Israel are run by Israel Railways. They’re modern, with aircon, and are clean, reliable and frequent, making for a good way to get around and see the country.

On a trip to Tel Aviv, a train may be the first public transport you encounter. There is a train line that runs to and from the city via Ben Gurion Airport; other train lines connect the city centre both with its surrounding suburbs and other cities.

Trains don’t yet make for a good way to get around Tel Aviv. The Tel Aviv Light Rail has been delayed multiple times and is set to be opened. Likewise, planned three-line Tel Aviv Metro is also on the cards and is due to open in 2021.

Taking the train however, is a normal thing to do in Israel, and can be a good way to get between destinations if you want to travel around the city. There are four main train stations serving mainly commuters on the line running north-to-south on the east side of the city; the main station is Tel Aviv Center (or Tel Aviv Savidor Mercaz), which is conveniently located next door to the Arlosorov Bus Terminal.

From Tel Aviv Center, you can get the train to Israel’s third-largest city, Haifa (which does have a metro). There is a high speed service in the works between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, but at the moment it is quicker to get the bus.

As an alternative to the bus, there is a city-wide bike hire scheme, dubbed Tel-O-Fun . These bright green bicycles are actually one of the quickest and easiest ways to get around, with an impressive 120 kilometres of dedicated bike path, and many drop-off/pick-up stations across the city. All it costs is around NIS 17 for a daily travel card for the bikes.

With this, you can travel along Rothschild Boulevard, Ben-Gurion Boulevard and Chen Boulevard without having to contend with traffic.

There is also a 10 kilometre-long coastal promenade that you can pedal along, plus a bicycle ride around the huge HaYarkon Park is epic.

On a safety note, if you choose to cycle around the city make sure you stick to the cycle paths. You will get fined if you cycle on pavements. The road can be dangerous, too.

Whilst Tel Aviv does not yet have a metro system, or even a light railway system, they soon will do. Before that happens, it is pretty safe to use the bus to get around the city – just make sure to keep an eye on your belongings and be careful around transport hubs. Enjoy!

Food in Israel is part of the culture and in Tel Aviv that is no different. This city boasts a vibrant gastronomy scene with a high standard of top restaurants, casual eateries, street cafes and bars.

There is a wide range of food from a wide range of backgrounds on offer in Tel Aviv: you want it, you can get it. To help you do just that, here are a few pointers.

• In Israel, more than half of all restaurants are serving kosher food. Nearly all hotels will serve kosher food. Good news if you’re kosher. Others may find it difficult to find milk for tea or coffee, and if you were thinking of having a creamy surf and turf meal of some kind, think again.
• Food is generally of a good standard in Israel, but some restaurants are going to be more run down and less hot on the hygiene than others. It is always a good rule of thumb to follow crowds; Tel Avivians will know the best places to eat in the city, so when the lunch rush starts, go where it’s busy.
• Do not be afraid to eat at the street food stalls – you will be missing out if you don’t. At falafel stands or kiosks, for example, you can get fries, pickled salads, fried eggplants (often cheap and healthy); there are also hummusia, which – you guessed it – specialise in hummus.
• Be careful of falafel sauce! This stuff can very, very spicy. Unless you are an old hand at consuming – and enjoying – spicy food, when the guy at the kiosk asks if you want any, just say “a little bit” otherwise you may have a shock.
• Know that Jewish restaurants will be closed on Shabbat (Friday evening to Saturday).
• If you are backpacking Israel on a budget, we recommend checking out a misada mizrahit. Literally translating “Eastern Restaurant”, these are great places to get cheap eats such as fried kibbeh, basic salads and grilled meat. Just make sure you go to one that looks as though it has a good standard of hygiene, or that’s busy, or that has good reviews – preferably all three.
• There are probably going to be some different flavours and spices going on that you may not be used to. Most likely, it won’t be bad hygiene practices that get to your stomach, but it will be the fact that you’re devouring something new; a change in diet is a common cause for an upset stomach.
• Just in case, it’s a good idea to bring anti-diarrhoea medication. Tel Aviv is a safe, clean city to eat around, but having something in your bag for those just-in-case situations is a good idea.
• Don’t be afraid of the fruit and veg: the stalls look amazing and the fruit is almost always fresh and delicious. To be on the safe side, however, it is always a good idea to wash your purchases before you tuck into them.
• Beware the hotel buffet. While it seems like a great, convenient place to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner, it’s the hotel buffet where many visitors to many countries around the world get an upset stomach. With different people passing in and out of the buffet, and food sitting around in metal trays, these can be hotbeds for germs.
• Wash your hands. It is normal to practise to wash your hands before you eat anyway, but when you are exploring a traffic-filled city all day and then sit down to eat something with your hands without having washed them beforehand… that’s not a good move.

The cafe culture is bustling, the street food stalls are always busy, and everyone claims to know the best place to get hummus, falafel or shwarma; and in the summer months, you can wash it all down with a thirst-quenching limonana – fresh made lemonade with mint.

Tel Aviv is the place to go to eat. Mostly, the problem you will have here is eating too much, or not having enough room for all the delicious dishes you’ll find. Follow your nose, and follow the crowds, and you won’t have too much difficulty finding some amazing food.

The tapwater in Tel Aviv is safe to drink.

There is no reason why you shouldn’t bring a refillable water bottle and take that around with you as you explore the city; there should be places for you to fill up your water dotted around.

Some restaurants will also provide you with a glass of water when you sit down at a table, too.

No need to buy plastic bottles of water that will only contribute further to the world’s plastic problem.

Tel Aviv is a big, vibrant city with – as we’ve just established – fantastic food, beautiful beaches, a 24-hour lifestyle and energetic nightlife.

However, there are problems that come with living in a city such as Tel Aviv. Though it is different, safer and more laid-back than the rest of Israel, living here can take some getting used to at first.

Its location and ongoing disputes and conflicts with neighbouring countries make the city a unique place. It is therefore protected by the Iron Dome – a missile defence system.

There is more security than you are probably used to, with bag searches and metal detectors at museums and other such buildings, as well as some armed personnel patrolling or even just strolling around the city.

Depending on the levels of tension at any time, the security may be more or less strict. There may be more or less personnel around.

You will also have to know what to do in the rare instances that the siren goes off. If it does, you need to get to a bomb shelter, either underground, in a building, or in a stairwell of a building.

Living in such a security-oriented environment may take its toll on some people, others may like it, or outright not be bothered about it – this will depend on your personality and experiences while living in Tel Aviv.

However, even with all this going on the doorstep, Tel Aviv is not a particularly bad, or even dangerous, city to live in. Fashion, museums, cafes – they are all there to be enjoyed, and there is always something going on.

In fact, with its Bohemian spirit, Tel Aviv is often referred to by Israelis as “The Bubble”. It can be easy to forget that you are even living in Israel, being much more secular and liberal than the rest of the country.

Just don’t go talking about the politics of the region. Growing up in a place like this will give people a different view to the one you probably have; besides, Tel Aviv tends to be more about partying than politics.

Another thing to note is that Tel Aviv can get unbearably hot. In the summer, air con is necessary. You will be dipping in and out of air-conned places just to get some respite from the heat outside.

People in Tel Aviv will be friendly and welcoming in general, and you may find it to be the kind of place where you can make friends very easily.

Just be sure to do thorough research on neighbourhoods to live, areas that will fit your lifestyle and personality. Look online to see how other expats have found living in Tel Aviv, visit the city to see how it all works, and then make the leap if you feel like it!

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An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

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Healthcare in Israel can be pretty expensive, and Tel Aviv is no exception.

It is very important if you are going to Tel Aviv, that you have appropriate medical travel insurance before you go. Some facilities may ask for payment upfront and may take legal action if you don’t pay your bills. Good insurance is a must.

However, the healthcare in Tel Aviv is good. The system is efficient and there is high-quality care on offer. In fact, there is an oversupply of doctors in Israel on the whole, as well as a host of modern hospitals and clinics.

In Tel Aviv, you will never be too far from top quality medical care, so much so that the city is actually becoming quite a popular destination for medical tourism – especially from the United States.

If you have a medical emergency whilst you are in Tel Aviv, you should call 101 and request an ambulance. One of the hospitals you may be taken to is Ichilov Hospital, which is a big facility in the centre of the city and has a 24-hour Emergency Room (ER).

For less serious ailments, there is Tel Aviv Doctor – a well-equipped clinic used to foreign visitors with English-speaking staff, with the capacity for procedures from lab tests and X-rays, to medical check-ups. They can also cater for emergency visits.

If you are in need of a doctor and you are staying at a hotel, you can ask your accommodation for a house visit from a local physician. However, it is important to note that house calls will be expensive and may require you to pay there and then; if you plan on doing so, you should contact your insurance provider.

Pharmacies across the city are well stocked. Superpharm is one of the biggest chains that you will find, with numerous branches around town; one of these, on Dizengoff Street, is open on Shabbat, which is good to note since practically all others will be closed.

These pharmacies have international brands that you will recognise, but can be quite highly-priced for things like aspirin or anti-diarrhea medicines (so come well stocked).

All in all, the healthcare in Tel Aviv is great – just don’t forget that travel insurance.

While Hebrew is the official language of Israel. Roughly 20% of the population speaks Arabic. Signage across the country is displayed in both Hebrew and Arabic. English is widely spoken in Israel.

Here are a few useful phrases in Hebrew for your backpacking Israel adventure:

Hello – Shalom

Morning— Boker

Please – Bevakasha

Cheers – L’chayiym!

What? – Mah?p

Where? – Heykhan?

No plastic bag – eyn sekyt nayylun

No straw please – bli kash, bhvakasha.

No plastic cutlery please – bli ” ma plastik, bhvakasha.

Beer — Biyrah

Thanks! — Todah!

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Tel Aviv.

Can you drink alcohol in Tel Aviv?

Alcohol is only available in Western hotels in Tel Aviv. Drinking is forbidden and considered abhorrent by traditional followers of Islam, so you should really avoid getting drunk and going out to the public. If possible, avoid alcohol completely.

Is it safe to walk around Tel Aviv at night?

Most neighborhoods in Tel Aviv are safe, however, it is smart to be a bit more cautious at night. Stick with a group of friends when going out and opt for a taxi instead of walking.

What should you avoid in Tel Aviv?

Avoid these things when visiting Tel Aviv: – Don’t express any political or religious opinions – Don’t disrespect local culture – Don’t leave things unattended at the beach – Don’t do any drugs

Is Tel Aviv safe for female solo traveller?

As long as you stay cautious and aware of your surroundings, you won’t face any issues as a solo female traveller in Tel Aviv. Link up with other female travellers on your trip to increase your safety even more.

Tel Aviv is a city of contradictions. Plenty of people visit, plenty of people live there. It’s liberal, it’s fun, it’s clean and there’s a lot to do. There are beaches, great nightlife, good eating.  But it all just happens to be on a knife-edge of tension from the Gaza Conflict and other disputes with neighbouring countries. However, outright hostilities are very rare and Tel Aviv deservedly keeps its nickname of “The Bubble”.

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ana Pereira

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To learn more about the guidelines about travel to Israel - click here

ISRAEL TRAVEL ALERTS & SAFETY INFORMATION

During these challenging times, we in Israel stand together with you, the American people, offering our prayers and support, united in the hope for a brighter, better tomorrow.

ISRAEL TRAVEL ALERTS & SAFETY INFORMATION

In order to remain fully informed, below is the updated information about the ongoing situation in Israel with regard to the CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19).

LATEST INFORMATION FOR TOURISTS TO ISRAEL ON THE CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19):

Tourists looking to travel to israel:.

At the moment, and until further notice, entry to Israel will be refused to non-citizens or non-residents of Israel arriving from anywhere in the world. In exceptional cases, one may apply for approval of the Foreign Ministry subject to proof of the ability to remain in self-isolation for 14 days.

Tourists who are currently in Israel:

• Visitors who are currently in Israel will not be allowed to continue with their planned visit and are requested to stay in their hotel and plan their departure from Israel as soon as possible.
• For now, hotels will continue operating according to the new regulations. This means, no more than 10 people in one area and maintaining a safe distance of 6.5 feet (two-meters) between each person.
• If you’ve been required to enter self-isolation , you must report it to the Ministry of Health:   https://govforms.gov.il/
• If you develop a fever of 100.4F (38C) or higher, a cough, trouble breathing, or other respiratory symptoms, you must immediately enter self-isolation and call the 101 MDA Emergency Services Hotline for medical advice.
• It is absolutely forbidden to enter clinics or hospitals if you are showing any of the above symptoms!

General guidelines for all those staying in Israel:

• For the latest information on coronavirus cases in Israel, please refer to the Department of Health's website .
• The Israeli Government is monitoring the outbreak closely and has implemented temporary measures including border restrictions for travelers from around the world.
• Commercial establishments and entertainment venues will be closed including:
• Shopping malls (except for supermarkets, pharmacies, and places that provide TA food services)
• Discos, bars, pubs, and dining establishments, including hotel dining (excluding TA food services)
• Banquet halls
• Gyms and swimming pools, water parks, zoo, safaris, petting zoos
• Ritual baths (men), and bathhouses
• Cinemas, theaters, and other cultural establishments
• Amusement facilities and amusement parks
• Businesses for non-medical treatment of the human body
• Exhibition halls and fairgrounds
• Public boats
• Heritage sites
• Prayer and religious ceremonies can be conducted in groups of up to 10 people, with 6.5 feet (2 meters) between people and no more than 2 groups at a time.
• Prohibition of visits to welfare, nursing, or healthcare facilities serving as homes for their residents, with the exception of a maximum of one caregiver, preferably a permanent caregiver.
• Regarding visits to hospitals and institutions:
• Visits to hospitals and senior facilities should be avoided.
• If a caregiver is needed, one caregiver must suffice.
• People showing symptoms are not permitted to accompany patients or visit institutions for seniors.
• Medical staff responsible for treating patients can only gather for work purposes in groups not to exceed 15 people.
• Seniors and patients: It is recommended for those aged 60 and over and those with chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, respiratory disease or immunosuppression, avoid crowds and contact with people who have returned from any destination abroad, those who show symptoms, or people who are suspected of being infected, while maintaining their routine.

Public transport: The Ministry of Health recommends avoiding public transport.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• I am a tourist in Israel and I am concerned that I may have COVID-19, where should I go?

If you have a fever of 100.4F (38C) or higher, cough, trouble breathing, or other respiratory symptoms, you must immediately enter self-isolation and call the 101 MDA Emergency Services Hotline for medical advice. Do not go to an HMO clinic or emergency ward.

• I already have a trip booked for April and May, should I cancel my reservations?

At the moment, entry to Israel will be refused to non-citizens or non-residents of Israel arriving from anywhere in the world. In exceptional cases, one may apply for approval of the Foreign Ministry subject to proof of the ability to remain in self-isolation for 14 days.

• Are there any tourist sites, museums, institutes, and/or cultural spaces closed? Are restaurants and bars operating as normal?

Currently, commercial establishments and entertainment venues are closed. Please see the above list for details and exceptions.

• Are any upcoming events or conferences canceled? If so, which ones?

No events of more than 10 people are permitted in Israel.

• Will upcoming religious ceremonies still take place as regularly scheduled (Passover, Easter, etc.)?

Prayer and religious ceremonies can be conducted in groups of up to 10 people, keeping 6.5 feet (2 meters) from one person to another and no more than 2 groups at a time.

• What are the restrictions regarding local travel throughout the country?

The Ministry of Health recommends avoiding public transport.

No gatherings of more than 10 people are permitted.

• When will Israel be open to incoming visitors again? At this moment there is not a known date in which Israel will be open to incoming visitors.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Safety and security

This travel advice covers Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs).

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Israel and the OPTs .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.    

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Israel and the OPTs

Terrorists are very likely to try and carry out attacks in Israel and the OPTs.

There was a large-scale terrorist attack by Hamas into southern Israel on 7 October 2023 where over 1,200 people were killed. Hamas continues to launch rockets into Israel and the Israeli Defence Forces are conducting significant military activity in Gaza.   

Terrorist attacks in Israel and the OPTs are very likely to continue with an increased threat of attacks, including by individuals acting alone.

Any attacks could be indiscriminate, including places visited by foreigners such as:

• the Old City in Jerusalem
• government, military and police installations
• security personnel including military and police
• transport networks
• businesses with western interests
• crowded places

Areas where foreign nationals and tourists are known to gather may be at higher risk of attack. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Examples of recent significant attacks include:

• one person was killed and 17 injured during a ramming attack in Ra’anana
• 2 people were killed and one injured during a shooting attack in the Jordan Valley
• one person was killed and 6 people injured during a car-ramming incident in Tel Aviv
• one person was killed and 3 people injured in a shooting attack in Tel Aviv
• 7 people were killed and 3 injured during a shooting attack in Neve Yaakov, East Jerusalem

Terrorist kidnap

Terrorist kidnap is a risk in Gaza and along the border with Egypt. There is a large-scale conflict happening in areas of southern Israel close to the border with Gaza and Hamas has taken hundreds of hostages, including British nationals, across the border and into Gaza.

British nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release. 

The long-standing policy of the British government is to not make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal. 

Political situation

There is currently a large-scale conflict happening in areas of southern Israel close to the border with Gaza. See Warnings and insurance for more information, including information for British nationals who are in Israel and the OPTs .

Keep up to date with local travel advice on local news outlets and international outlets like the Access Coordination Unit .

Rocket fire can affect most areas of Israel and Israeli air strikes also continue into  Gaza. Be cautious and make sure you know the safety actions that you should take if an Israeli warning siren sounds. Follow advice from local authorities and stay informed of the security situation through the media and this travel advice. No warning sirens will sound inside Gaza. See Gaza .

Regional tensions

Military activity in the red sea area.

Military activity is currently underway in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea. While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that travel advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should continue to monitor travel advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.

Violent incidents

In Israel and the West Bank, there is a risk of violent incidents, including:

• vehicle rammings
• stone throwing attacks on people and vehicles

Incidents have occurred:

• in Tel Aviv
• in Be’er Sheva
• Damascus Gate
• Herod’s gate
• Lion’s Gate
• in Jordan Valley
• along Route 60 (especially junctions near Nablus), Route 443 and other West Bank arterial roads used by both Palestinians and Israelis
• at Israeli checkpoints

Incidents have involved protestors (Israelis and Palestinians), Israeli security forces and civilians (including Israeli settlers). Tourists or bystanders could be caught up in incidents.

Demonstrations and armed clashes

Large political demonstrations can happen across Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

Demonstrations and other forms of civil unrest can occur at short notice and often turn violent.

Entry and exit to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv can be affected by demonstrations. Check before you travel.

You should:

• check local news before travelling for information on recent clashes
• avoid large gatherings and demonstrations
• check locally before travelling to areas where there has been recent violence and follow the instructions of the local authorities

If Israeli security operations or armed clashes are happening near you, stay inside and wait for the local authorities to confirm that the situation is calm before moving to a different location.

There is increased risk of political tension (which can cause demonstrations and clashes) during events such as:

• Thursday and Saturday evenings
• after Friday prayers
• Jewish high holidays (Passover, Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur and Succoth)
• Ramadan, in particular Laylat Al Qadr
• other religious holidays
• anniversaries including Independence Day (14 May, Hebrew calendar dates vary), Jerusalem Day (date varies), Land Day (30 March), Nakba Day (15 May)

Risks increase when religious or national holidays overlap.

Some of these protests have led to violent clashes.

Refugee camps

Be extremely cautious if visiting refugee camps. Hebron and Palestinian refugee camps have previously been the site of violent clashes.

Settlements

There have been recent violent incidents in settlements and settlement outposts, including near Beit El, Homesh, Shilo and Evyatar.   

Protecting your belongings

Keep your personal belongings in a safe place. Theft of passports, credit cards, and valuables from public beaches is common.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

Carry identification with you at all times (for example a copy of the personal details and entry stamp pages of your passport).

In Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza, clothing should cover your shoulders, upper arms, and legs above the knee.

Locals in ultra-Orthodox Jewish neighbourhoods such as Bnei Brak, Modi’in Illit, Beitar Illit, Beit Shemesh and Safed can react strongly to anyone (particularly women) dressed less conservatively. Check locations of ultra-Orthodox neighbourhoods and towns in travel guides.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. In 2024, Ramadan is expected to begin on 11 March and last approximately 30 days. If you are in the OPTs during this time, do not:

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
• play loud music or dance
• swear in public

Children under the age of 8 do not fast during Ramadan.

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also: 

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk or be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening
• be patient and show tolerance

Buying property

There are risks in buying property in Israeli settlements on land considered to be occupied under international law in East Jerusalem, the rest of the West Bank and the Golan. Be aware that a future peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians, or between Israel and Syria, could have consequences for property you buy in these settlements.

FCDO does not offer legal advice on or become involved in private property disputes.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

If you’re caught with drugs, you can expect a prison sentence.

Using cameras and binoculars

Be sensitive about taking pictures of people in Muslim and Orthodox Jewish areas. Do not take photographs of military or police officers or installations.

LGBT+ travellers

Israeli law does not criminalise same-sex sexual relations between consenting adults. In the OPTs , same-sex sexual activity is legal in the West Bank but illegal in Gaza, where it carries a 10-year prison sentence.

Attitudes towards LGBT+ issues in some parts of Palestinian and Israeli society can be hostile.

In more conservative Israeli areas in the West Bank, including in ultra-Orthodox communities, all displays of affection in public, regardless of gender or sexuality, may receive negative attention.

In Palestinian society, same-sex relationships are largely taboo. Some Palestinian groups may violently oppose cultural events and demonstrations, which they see as inconsistent with their values. This includes those seen as linked to the LGBT+ community, even if the event is not intended to promote LGBT+ rights. In these cases, the Palestinian security forces and police may not always act effectively to protect participants. Be aware of these risks. Liaise with local authorities before planning or organising any event.

Tel Aviv has a large, active LGBT+ community and a big annual Pride parade. Jerusalem also has an annual Pride parade, but there has been a heavy security presence at the event since a fatal stabbing in 2015. Be aware of your personal security if attending.

See more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

If you’re caught breaking local laws on import and export of wild animals, expect to receive a substantial fine and up to 2 years in prison. For more information on the regulations and laws in Israel see the Israel Ministry of Environmental Protection website (in Hebrew).

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Israel and the OPTs , see information on driving abroad .   

There are frequent road accidents, due to:

• erratic driving
• unreliable vehicle maintenance

Radar speed traps operate on some roads and police issue heavy fines for speeding.

Avoid driving into ultra-Orthodox Jewish areas of Jerusalem on Shabbat. Shabbat is from sunset on Friday to nightfall on Saturday. If you attempt to drive into these areas, local residents may throw stones at your car.

Licences and permits

You need a 1968 international driving permit ( IDP )  to drive on a UK driving licence in Israel.

You need to carry a green card to prove you have the minimum insurance cover.

Hiring a car

If you want to drive across into the West Bank, check that you will be covered by insurance there. Some hire companies do not insure vehicles taken there. It may be easier to hire a fully insured car from a company in East Jerusalem.

Hitchhiking

It is not safe to hitchhike in Israel and the OPTs .

Driving in the desert

If you’re travelling to the desert, you should:

• go with others
• take a supply of water
• take a mobile phone
• let someone know your itinerary and expected return time

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards .

Roads can flood during extreme weather conditions. Flash flooding is a risk, particularly in the arid southern region of the Negev. Check risk areas locally.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes are a risk in Israel and the OPTs . The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake .   

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Is it safe to travel to Israel right now? Latest travel advice

The foreign office now advises against all travel to large parts of israel and all of the occupied palestinian territories, and against all but essential travel to the rest of the country.

T he UK Foreign Office currently warns against all travel to large parts of Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories over safety concerns amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and easyJet are also continuing to suspend their flights to Tel Aviv. Thousands of deaths have been reported in Israel and Gaza since fighting broke out on October 7, 2023, while tensions have escalated in the region. Most recently, US and UK forces launched strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen on January 11, 2024, after the terror group’s continued attacks on commercial ships with an Israeli connection in the Red Sea. Here’s what you need to know.

Main photo: an airstrike in Gaza City on Monday, October 9, 2023 (Getty Images)

What’s the latest government advice about travelling to Israel?

The UK Foreign Office currently advises against all travel to large parts of Israel and all of the occupied Palestinian territories, and all but essential travel to the rest of the country. This includes the tourist cities of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

The UK Foreign Office said: “There is currently a large-scale conflict happening in areas of southern Israel close to the border with Gaza. Keep up to date with local travel advice via local news outlets and international outlets like the Access Coordination Unit.

“Make sure you know the safety actions that you should take if an Israeli warning siren sounds, follow advice from local authorities and stay informed of the security situation through the media and this travel advice. No warning sirens will sound inside Gaza.”

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If you are in an area affected by fighting, follow the advice found on the Israeli Home Front Command website , or by calling 104 — both of these services are only available to those currently in Israel.

If you are currently in Israel, you should register your presence with the UK government on the dedicated webpage so that it can send you updates. You must do this for every member of your family that’s a British citizen.

• Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now? • Is it safe to travel to Dubai right now? • Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now? • Is it safe to travel to Cyprus right now? • Is it safe to travel to Morocco right now?

Is it safe to travel to Jerusalem and Tel Aviv?

You should not be considering visiting Jerusalem or Tel Aviv for a holiday right now. The FCDO has advised against all but essential travel to areas of Israel that include the tourist hubs of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. A state of emergency is in place across the country and borders could close at short notice.

In addition, following the airstrike on Houthi bases in Yemen by US and UK forces on January 11, 2024, the Foreign Office has said: “Military activity is currently underway in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea. While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that travel advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should continue to monitor travel advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.”

British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and easyJet have all paused services to Tel Aviv until March 2024. If you already have a flight booked, you should get in touch with the airline — the options to cancel for a full refund or amend to a future date are available.

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

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Is tel aviv safe for tourists – 2023 travelling guide.

• March 2, 2023
• Destinations

The vibrant urban cultural center of Israel is Tel Aviv. a seaside location that combines centuries of history with stylish architecture from the 1930s, vibrant nightlife, and a fantastic food scene.

Traveling to Tel Aviv from a major city anywhere in the world is very safe. Families with kids can travel safely on foot.

This comprehensive guide to Tel Aviv’s safety has been put together not to scare or deter you, but to provide you with the facts and all the information you need to have a great time in this cool city.

Table of Contents

How Safe is Tel Aviv Really?

Israel’s security situation is unstable and tense.

Tel Aviv remains a very safe city to visit, but travelers need to be aware of the possibility and high risk of terrorist threats.

The local police are typically very cordial.

Pickpockets, like in every big city, operate at the old and new central bus stations, the beach promenade and bag and bicycle thefts are common.

In comparison to most other cities of comparable size, Tel Aviv has much lower crime rates.

Buses are the best way to tour the city and a very safe way to travel.

Although Tel Aviv is generally free of street crime, some of the southern neighborhoods could become unsafe late at night.

In terms of serious crime, the Northern and central portions are secure, but pickpockets are common even during the day.

Because it is the nation’s financial and technological center and is highly recommended for travel, this city has excellent tourist infrastructure.

Is Tel Aviv Safe?

Tel Aviv is a popular tourist destination despite what some may believe to be its unstable geological location. Most travelers to Israel who come to see the historical sites eventually end up in Tel Aviv.

Israel relies heavily on tourism as one of their main sources of income. In 2017, the nation received 3.6 million visitors, a significant 25% increase from the year before, and the industry generated NIS 20 billion for the national economy.

Let’s fast-forward to 2019. Israel is expected to have welcomed around 4.7 million visitors, breaking the previous year’s record of 4.12 million. Despite the nation’s alleged problems, each year has seen a significant increase in tourists, setting new records.

Tel Aviv is the country’s financial and technological capital and according to the UN, also its diplomatic capital. Tel Aviv is home to 3.9 million people, or 44% of Israel’s total population.

Murders have reportedly been steadily declining, according to Israeli police statistics on crime. According to reports, there were 103 homicide victims in 2018 (1.14 per 100,000 people), which is a decrease from 2017’s 136 victims. When viewed separately from Israel’s overall statistics, Tel Aviv exhibits relatively low crime rates: use of firearms, muggings, and other violent crimes are all extremely rare.

That said, on the 2019 Global Peace Index (which measures the general safety of 163 countries) Israel ranked 146 – just below Mali (145) and just above Lebanon (147) putting it at the lower end of the “Low State of Peace” bracket.

Though it is situated in a country that may not be regarded as “safe”, Statistics show that Tel Aviv is one of the top tourist destinations in Israel and has the vibe of any Mediterranean city.

Is It Safe to Visit Tel Aviv Right Now?

Given that Israel has been at war with Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza for decades, it is difficult to say whether Tel Aviv is safe at the moment.

Every so often, tensions can increase, resulting in isolated conflicts involving rockets fired across international boundaries.

There have been more tensions throughout the region as a whole. A United States. airstrike in An anti-Western sentiment spread throughout the Middle East after Baghdad killed an Iranian general.

Previous to this (November 2019), more than 60 rockets were fired from Gaza into southern Israel, with at least two being intercepted over Tel Aviv by the city’s “Iron Dome” missile defense system.

Ongoing tensions, culminating with the firing of rockets, can lead the Israeli Home Front Command to close workplaces and schools, including in Tel Aviv. For instance, this is the situation at the moment this article is being written.

The back and forth of projectile fire between Israel and Gaza can affect Tel Aviv. If an emergency situation is about to occur, warning sirens will sound.

Essentially it is a fragile situation that can change quickly.

Protests also affect Tel Aviv, and can feature violent clashes between protesters, and law enforcement. At times, passersby and tourists are also entangled in it all. Route 443, between Tel Aviv to Jerusalem also sees such incidents occur.

All of these concerns are variable; at times, tensions are high, at other times, they are low. Before you travel, it might be a good idea to check the most recent developments in the conflict in Israel and the Middle East in general.

However, for the most part, Tel Aviv and its residents maintain their composure and go about their daily lives as usual. In fact, that the city is referred to as “The Bubble” for how different it feels – and is – from the rest of the country.

Obtain a local SIM card, and enable notifications for a nearby news station, to stay informed of the situation. Another means of safety is by remaining connected.

Keeping Your Money Safe in Tel Aviv

Any traveler will worry about how to safeguard their financial assets. Whether you are worried about losing money, or having it stolen from you, it safe to say that it is an important part of travel.

In Tel Aviv, as anywhere else in the world, a money belt is a convenient way to keep your cash secure.

By wearing a money belt, you can keep your cash secure and stop worrying about it getting lost or stolen.

Some money belts, however, aren’t as good as others; we think that they can look obvious when worn under clothing, and can be pretty uncomfortable sometimes, too.

The Pacsafe Money Belt is our best bet. It’s affordable, it looks and acts like a belt, and it’s sturdy – what more could you ask for out of a money belt!

This money belt is not only functional and looks like a regular belt, but it is also strong and reasonably priced. To keep your cash secure for the day, all you need to do is stash it in the hidden zipper pocket on the belt.

Is Tel Aviv Safe to Travel Alone?

Tel Aviv is the perfect place for solo travel. Everyone in this community is approachable, kind, and willing to offer you any advice you might need.

It’s also a great place to join in with everyone else, mixing and mingling and partying till the early hours, then hanging out at a coffee shop after you’ve woken up late – just like everybody else.

Nevertheless, to help you stay safe and legal, here are some advice for solo travelers in Tel Aviv.

• You should definitely do research when it comes to accommodation. You will want to find somewhere that suits your travel type, works well for you, and is secure. Make sure you enjoy your accommodations and aren’t just booking the cheapest available accommodation by reading reviews. Abraham Hostels is a friendly place.
• Asking for help shouldn’t be a fear. The majority of people in Tel Aviv are willing and happy to assist you if you need directions, require advice, or feel unsafe. Many locals also speak excellent English.
• have a variety of ways to access your money. Due to the potential stress of losing everything at once, think about opening multiple bank accounts and keeping your credit cards in separate places. You might also find a credit card for emergencies to be of great assistance.
• Before you depart for Tel Aviv, download all of the top Israeli apps. A good place to start is Moovit, which provides information on the nation’s public transportation schedules. You can also look for emergency response apps and offline map apps like Maps.me.
• Join Facebook groups focused on specific cities, such as Secret Tel Aviv. You can meet locals here, get advice, and stay informed about events happening in the city.
• Make sure that your travel plans and plans for exploring the city aren’t affected by big public holidays like Yom Kippur, which sees the city’s public transport system shut down and virtually empty streets.
• Going off the grid is not required if you are traveling alone; in fact, doing so could be quite dangerous. Maintaining contact with loved ones back home will be beneficial for both your mental well-being and in preventing homesickness, so make sure to do so. It is good to hear a familiar voice.
• Try not to get too wasted. Even though Tel Aviv is known for being a city that parties nonstop, you don’t have to get completely wasted. By doing this, you only increase your chances of making poor decisions, getting lost, or even worse.
• Knowing that asking someone nearby to keep an eye on your belongings while you go swimming is not unusual when you are by yourself at the beach and have your things with you.
• Travel light; arriving in Tel Aviv with a ton of luggage is not only unprofessional but also won’t make it easy for you to get around or leave the city. Instead of arriving with several bags, choose to use a small, packable daypack as an example.

Tel Aviv should unquestionably be on your list if you’re a solo traveler hoping to explore the best attractions in Israel.

In fact, Israeli people are used to travelling and are used to mingling with people from other places. In addition, Tel Aviv has excellent hostels that are grouped around a fun beachfront area.

This city is a fantastic option for enjoyment and good times. Being sensible and keeping in mind that it’s not a playground where nothing bad can happen will ensure that you have a good time.

Is Tel Aviv Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Like many cities in the world, Tel Aviv does, unfortunately, come with a handful of issues when it comes to visiting the city as a solo female traveller.

However, for the most part, Tel Aviv’s laid-back feel and free-spirited mindset make it not just a safe place for women to travel by themselves, but a very fun one at that.

We’ve put together a quick guide for female solo travelers in Tel Aviv below to help you stay extra safe.

• Keep an eye on your drink at all times and never leave it unattended. In Tel Aviv, people do spike drinks. To be safe, make sure to hold your beverage in your hand at all times. Don’t even drink from strangers.
• Avoid walking alone in isolated, dark areas at night, whether it’s a deserted beach, a short cut home, or another place of that nature. The possible risk is not worthwhile.
• It is ok to say no and be firm with it. Some men may flirt in a little too much of a direct manner. If you feel that this is unwanted attention – it is normal to be firm with how you respond. Usually, this is harmless, and more annoying than anything, but if you do feel like you are being harassed, then you should make a scene, and find someone nearby who can help you.
• Catcalling does happen occasionally, but it is best to ignore it and keep going.
• Even during the day, use caution when wandering around the city. While some neighborhoods, like Florentin, are hip and accepting, others might not be.
• Don’t divulge any personal information to strangers, including your marital status, where you are staying, your room number, where you are from, and what you plan to do tomorrow. Such information is unnecessary to share with them, and doing so could put you in danger.
• Walking with purpose and assurance that you know where you’re going (even if you don’t) is referred to as walking confidently. You may appear vulnerable if you appear to be a lost tourist.
• It will be a good idea to meet some local ladies. Your understanding of Tel Aviv’s various neighborhoods and scenes will be enhanced by their advice. Simply searching for female-focused meetups will yield results, as will joining Facebook groups like Host A Sister, which will allow to put out a request to meet up with other women wherever you are in the world.
• Taking a tour is a good idea if you’re unsure about exploring the city on your own. To be safe, only use very reputable, highly-recommended tour operators and guides; it is crucial to read reviews of any potential providers.
• Share your travel schedule with others. Send your travel plans to a close friend or family member back home, and make sure to check in on them every few days to let them know how you’re doing. You might feel more at ease if you can reduce the anxiety of others.
• Ensure that your phone is always charged. A spare battery pack that will keep your phone’s battery topped off is something you might want to buy if you plan to be out and about all day.

Female travelers traveling alone will love Tel Aviv. With music venues, art exhibitions, chilled cafes to people-watch at, and some great dining experiences, you will have no trouble filling your time with cool things to do.

Consider local meetups or staying in a hostel with a social atmosphere if you want to find like-minded people to spend your time with. You can avoid problems if you take the same safety precautions as you would anywhere else.

Is Tel Aviv Safe to Travel for Families?

Despite its reputation as a party city, Tel Aviv is a great destination for families during the day thanks to its abundance of museums, parks, cafes, and markets.

The city is home to many young families, which has contributed to its current reputation as a family-friendly destination. In fact, the city’s ethos largely derives from the importance played by the Hebrew word mischpacha – family, including distant relatives.

But this wasn’t always the case.

A few years ago, students and retirees made up the majority of Tel Aviv’s population. The city is now much more livable and enjoyable for families as a result of changes for the better, especially investments in green spaces.

Today Tel Aviv is a green city: there are parks galore. The largest one is Park HaYarkon, which is located on the Yarkon River’s banks and has a large number of playgrounds, a petting zoo, and rolling grassy areas. If your children are active, this is a great place to head straight for.

The Old Port is also good for kids as this historic area has sandpits and fountains for little ones. There is also the roomy Independence Park, for the ideal picnic spot overlooking the sea (plus playgrounds).

Beaches are a major draw for the city, and Tel Aviv has 14 kilometers of sandy beaches. You can unwind here while watching your kids splash around in the sand and the Mediterranean Sea.

Because lifeguards are present at every beach in the city and the current is not particularly strong close to shore, there is not much cause for concern regarding beach safety. All ages can enjoy swimming in this water.

There are, however, occasional “Black Flag” days when it is forbidden to swim. This frequently occurs following a storm.

Some of the best beaches in the city for families include Gordon Beach, which has a swimming pool as well as kiddie and baby pools, and Metzitzim Beach, which has both a beach bar and a playground right on the water.

Beach days should be carefully planned, though, as the midday sun is not recommended because it can get very hot during the summer. It is advised to go the beach either in the morning, or later in the afternoon; make sure to use sunscreen, wear T-shirts and sunhats, too.

There are many museums in Tel Aviv that offer educational activities, including Beit Hatfutsot—the Museum of the Jewish People—and the Steinhardt Natural History Museum, which has more than a million objects in its collection. There is also the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, which features fantastical sculptures and vibrant paintings that will capture children’s imaginations.

With children in tow, Tel Aviv is relatively small and simple to navigate. Pushchairs can be used on the well-maintained pavements, and even the inner-city bus can accommodate them. In actuality, kids under 5 ride for free on public transportation.

When it comes to food, there is not much to worry about. Family-friendly establishments typically have children’s menus and are accustomed to serving them; it is not uncommon to see families dining out late into the evening with their kids.

It is best not to visit Tel Aviv with young children in July and August, which is when the country sees its highest humidity and temperatures. Spring time and September – both the “shoulders season” – are good times of year to visit, with pleasant temperatures and plenty of sun.

Is It Safe to Drive in Tel Aviv?

You don’t need to drive yourself around the city to get around. If you do decide to self-drive, you should be aware that it will take a lot of patience.

Though you don’t need to drive yourself or rent a car, self-driving can be a good option if you want to travel further afield. Generally speaking, the highways are up to date and well-maintained. It is simple to navigate because the signs are in Hebrew, Arabic, and English.

Israel does not have a high rate of road traffic deaths, which suggests that it is not particularly dangerous, despite the fact that accidents caused by erratic driving occur frequently.

However, Tel Aviv drivers don’t have the best reputation; at times, it seems as though the traffic laws are more suggestions for people to follow than actual regulations. There will be a lot of honking, some lights flashing in your direction, and a few crazy U-turns to be aware of. At all times, you must remain vigilant and assertive.

However, there are speed cameras, and exceeding the speed limit is frequently fined.

The anxiety of driving in Tel Aviv will be greatly reduced by a satnav or GPS.

The fact that it is so difficult to find a parking spot, especially in downtown Tel Aviv, adds another headache to the parking situation. There are many complicated rules and regulations, such as the fact that cars can only park along blue-and-white kerbs; parking along red-and-white kerbs is prohibited and will result in your vehicle being towed.

Privately owned parking lots can be found all over the city, but larger public parking lots can be found south of Jaffa Port and near the Old Railway Station; Tel Aviv’s largest parking lot is at Reading Terminal, close to Park HaYarkon, and it has good bus connections into the heart of the city.

The signs that go with the parking machines aren’t always in English, and they can be difficult to use.

Shabbat (Friday evening and Saturday) can make parking more convenient because many city parking lots are open and many residents go on day trips.

To make things simpler, you can download the Pango app, which allows you to pay for parking through the app.

The experience of parking, however, is not generally positive.

Overall, driving is safe in Tel Aviv, but it is not really worthwhile. However, if driving is your thing, there isn’t much that can stop you. However, we advise that you have some experience driving abroad and are a confident driver.

Is Uber Safe in Tel Aviv?

Uber is risk-free in Tel Aviv.

Israeli ride-hailing app Gett operates similarly to Uber in that it is only for taxis.

The benefit of both Uber and Gett is that the price is what you pay through the app using your bank card, so you won’t be taken advantage of by any taxi drivers. Additionally, a legitimate taxi is guaranteed for you. Other benefits include the ability to track your ride and look up driver reviews, among other things.

Are Taxis Safe in Tel Aviv?

The majority of the time, Tel Aviv’s taxis are secure, but there is always a chance of being taken advantage of. There are a few things you need to be aware of when using taxis in Tel Aviv.

In Tel Aviv, taxis are easy to find because they are present almost everywhere. The Israel Transportation Ministry regulates licensed taxis, which are typically white and made by Mercedes, Skoda, or Kia.

Taxis in Tel Aviv will be painted with the word “TAXI” or “MUNIT” on either side of the cab, and will have a yellow light-up sign on the roof. But be careful; unlike other countries’ systems, the taxi sign is always lit and, confusingly, doesn’t say whether or not it’s available.

The green light at the bottom of the main yellow light is the thing to watch for; if it’s off, someone is on board. However, this isn’t always the case, so the best thing to do is just to try to wave down any taxi, regardless of lights.

A meter is required for taxi drivers by law. Get out of the taxi and call another one if the driver tries to con you by claiming the meter is broken, that it’s cheaper not to use the meter, or something similar. Tourists may be the target of these shenanigans, and your driver will probably offer a flat rate, which may be significantly higher than the rate the meter would calculate.

It is acceptable to sit in the front with the driver if you have found a taxi and enter it; this is not unusual. Friendly taxi drivers will talk to you about their city and what they’re up to.

Please be aware that tipping your driver is not required nor customary.

You can file a complaint if the driver is smoking, is picking up additional passengers, or if you believe you have been defrauded. Either ask for a receipt at the end of your taxi ride, or write down the taxi’s number, the driver’s name, and the license plate number, and call the Transportation Ministry Office.

You should be aware that there are two different tariff systems; the lower one is in effect between 5:30 and 6:30 am. and 9 p.m.; the higher one – 25% higher than the lower one – runs between 9 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., as well as on Shabbat (Friday night and Saturday) and Jewish holidays.

There are also charges for specific inter-city routes, for which you can request the designated price.

By using one of the aforementioned apps—Gett or Uber—or by asking your lodging to make a call for you, everything about taxis in Tel Aviv can be made simpler.

Is Public Transportation in Tel Aviv Safe?

Buses are the main mode of public transportation in Tel Aviv because there isn’t a metro there yet. These can be a little bit confusing for visitors to the city to get to grips with. But once you understand how they work, they are generally secure and simple.

The Moovit app shows you realtime updates of bus routes if you do get confused with it all.

Dan operates the buses in Tel Aviv, but there are a number of other smaller businesses that run routes throughout the city.

You can catch a bus in Tel Aviv from 5 a.m. to 12 a.m., which means party animals can ride them home in the early morning after a night of dancing.

The cost of taking the bus is about NIS 5 for a one-way ticket, which is paid when boarding the vehicle.

It is a good idea, however, to consider purchasing a one day pass or hofshi yomi – for NIS 13.50, this gets you unlimited travel around the city and its suburbs. The weekly hofshi shavoui (NIS 64) is another option.

You could also purchase a Personal Rav Kav if you plan to stay in the city for a few weeks or months. These top-up travel cards can be picked up from a Dan information centre; note that getting one involves paperwork, and requires a photo and a passport.

If you get one from a bus driver – an Anonymous Rav Kav – however, none of that is needed; just ask the driver as you get on.

The Central Bus Station, Arlozorov Bus Terminal, and Carmelit Bus Terminal are the three largest bus terminals in Tel Aviv. Be cautious late at night and early in the morning, especially in the area of the Central Bus Station. Transport hubs aren’t always the most attractive locations, as is the case in many cities. Avoid looking lost by keeping your belongings close at hand.

Israel Railways is in charge of operating the trains in Israel. They provide a convenient way to travel the country because they are clean, air-conditioned, modern, and frequently scheduled.

On a trip to Tel Aviv, a train may be the first public transport you encounter. There is a train line that travels to and from the city via Ben Gurion Airport, and there are other train lines that link the city’s center to both its nearby suburbs and other cities.

The best way to get around Tel Aviv right now isn’t by train. The opening of the Tel Aviv Light Rail, which has experienced numerous delays, is imminent. Also in the works and scheduled to open in 2021 is a three-line metro system for Tel Aviv.

But if you want to get around the city, taking the train is commonplace in Israel and can be a convenient way to get from one place to another. On the east side of the city, there are four major train stations that primarily cater to commuters; the main station is Tel Aviv Center (or Tel Aviv Savidor Mercaz), which is conveniently located next to the Arlosorov Bus Terminal.

You can take a train from Tel Aviv Center to Haifa, Israel’s third-largest city (which does have a metro). Although a high-speed service between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is under construction, taking the bus is currently faster.

As an alternative to the bus, there is a city-wide bike hire scheme, dubbed Tel-O-Fun. With an impressive 120 kilometers of bike lanes and numerous pick-up and drop-off locations throughout the city, these vibrant green bicycles are actually one of the quickest and simplest ways to get around. A daily travel card for the bikes is only about NIS 17 in total.

With this, you can navigate Chen Boulevard, Ben-Gurion Boulevard, and Rothschild Boulevard without encountering traffic.

Additionally, you can ride a bicycle along the 10-kilometer-long coastal promenade, and a tour of the enormous HaYarkon Park by bicycle is incredible.

On a safety note, if you decide to cycle through the city, be sure to stay on the cycle paths. If you cycle on a sidewalk, you’ll be fined. Additionally, driving can be hazardous.

Although Tel Aviv doesn’t yet have a metro or even a light rail system, they will in the near future. Before that occurs, taking the bus is a relatively safe way to get around the city; just be careful around transportation hubs and keep an eye on your belongings. Enjoy!

Conclusion: is Israel Safe to Visit?

Briefly, the majority of Israel is safe for tourists to travel through. Tourists strongly reconsider traveling to Gaza, the West Bank, and the border between the Sinai and Israel, as these areas are known for high rates of terrorism and civil unrest.

FAQ About Staying Safe in Tel Aviv

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Tel Aviv.

Is It Safe to Walk in Tel Aviv at Night?

Even the spooky-looking areas of Tel Aviv are safer than most comparable places in the world in the evenings. Nevertheless, some areas of South Tel Aviv (particularly the area around the main bus station) can be unsettling at night, and it’s one of the very few places in Tel Aviv where muggings occasionally occur.

Is Tel Aviv Safe for British Tourists?

Particularly when compared to many Western nations and cities, personal safety is always extraordinarily high and crime is very low in Israel. Israel is actually safer to visit than the UK, USA, or the majority of other western nations when it comes to crime.

Is Tel Aviv Safe for Girls?

Safety. First and foremost, Israel is typically considered very safe, especially for travelers (including solo female travelers). In Israel, daily life is typically very secure, and the major tourist attractions and sites always have strong security.

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Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: March 27, 2024 07:43 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, israel - avoid non-essential travel.

Avoid non-essential travel to Israel due to the ongoing regional armed conflict and the unpredictable security situation.

Gaza Strip - AVOID ALL TRAVEL

Israel has expanded ground operations in the Gaza Strip.

If you are in the Gaza Strip, shelter in a secure place until it’s safe for you to leave. We understand that there are connectivity problems in the Gaza Strip. If possible, try to register or update your personal information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive the latest information about departure options. If you are unable to do so, try to contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre .

The Government of Canada’s ability to provide consular services in the Gaza Strip is severely limited.

West Bank - AVOID ALL TRAVEL

This advisory excludes the following areas where you should avoid non-essential travel:

• Route 443 between Jerusalem and Modi’in

Jerusalem - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to Jerusalem due to the volatile security situation.

Border with Syria - Avoid all travel

This advisory excludes the following cities where you should exercise a high degree of caution:

• Buq’ata
• Majdal Shams
• Mas’ada

Border with Egypt - Avoid all travel

This advisory excludes the city of Eilat and the Taba border crossing as well as the Route 90 leading to it, where you should exercise a high degree of caution.

Border with Lebanon - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to the area within 5 kilometres of the border with Lebanon due to ongoing military operations.

Border with Gaza Strip - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to due to the risk of rocket and mortar fire, gunfire and military activity.

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Ongoing hostilities in Israel and the Gaza Strip

The security situation remains volatile and unpredictable in Israel and the Gaza Strip as hostilities persist between Israel’s military and Gaza-based terrorist groups.

Israeli ground operations and air strikes are expected to continue throughout the Gaza Strip. Missiles and rockets continue to be fired from Gaza towards central and southern Israel.

Military operations in the Gaza Strip pose a risk to civilians, even where they take shelter. Damage to infrastructure has affected communication networks in the Gaza Strip, including the internet.

Violent clashes persist along the border between Israel and Lebanon, including daily rocket and missile fire as well as air strikes. You should avoid all travel within 5 kilometres of the border with Lebanon.

Tensions and violence in the West Bank

Tensions and violence are high in the West Bank. Frequent military operations throughout the West Bank can lead to casualties, including bystanders, and can result in clashes between Israeli security forces and Palestinians, as well as retaliatory attacks.

Extremist Israeli settler violence occurs frequently. There are reports of civilians being attacked, forced under threat to leave their houses or evacuate specific areas. Individuals of Palestinian or Arab descent may be subject to increased scrutiny, detention, and arrest. Israeli checkpoints have increased in number throughout the West Bank. Personal electronic devices may be searched at Israeli military checkpoints, including flying checkpoints. You, your friends, and your family members could face detention, arrest, and/or the suspension or withdrawal of your official permits if you share information deemed to be inaccurate and sensitive by Israel. This includes content shared on social media. Refrain from discussing political views online and be conscious of local laws related to internet use.

If you're in or near an affected area in Israel, the West Bank, or the Gaza Strip:

• assess if you are currently in a safe location
• shelter in place if you can’t leave the area safely
• limit your movements
• remain extremely cautious
• monitor local and international media to get the latest information
• try to keep your phone charged
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Canada’s response to the crisis in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip

Assisted departure options

Canada continues to offer assistance to Canadian citizens, permanent residents and eligible family members in Gaza.

Canadian citizens and permanent residents, and their eligible family members, currently in Gaza and wishing to leave should contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre .

Canadian officials put forward names of Canadians and permanent residents, as well as their eligible family members, to the responsible authorities for approval to exit the Gaza Strip through the Rafah border crossing. Global Affairs Canada will contact individual Canadians and permanent residents, as well as their eligible family members, when their request to leave has been approved. Global Affairs Canada does not ultimately decide who can leave Gaza.

If you are seeking to leave the Gaza Strip:

• Keep your travel documents and personal belongings with you at all times
• Be ready to travel to the border crossing on short notice

The situation at the Rafah border crossing remains unpredictable. You should assess the safety risks for you and your family members before travelling.

Due to infrastructure damage, there could be connectivity problems in the Gaza Strip. If possible, try to register or update your personal information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive the latest information about departure options. If you are unable to do so, try to contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre .

If you're a family member of a Canadian citizen or of a permanent resident who is currently in Gaza, the West Bank or Israel and is unable to register through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service , please contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre .

Border operations

Due to recent events in Israel, West Bank and the Gaza Strip, operations at all land borders may be affected by limited authorized daily crossings, reduced hours or closure on short notice. Israeli authorities may also unexpectedly close checkpoints in the West Bank.

You should verify the status of the border crossings before you travel, if you’re planning to cross the following borders:

• Israel/Jordan
• Israel/Egypt
• West Bank/Jordan
• Gaza Strip/Egypt

Naval blockade

The security situation along the Mediterranean coast of the Gaza Strip remains dangerous. The Israeli Navy regularly patrols the area and the Israeli security forces continue to intercept attempts to breach Israel’s naval blockade.

These incidents have resulted in:

• deportations

In cases of deportation, local authorities are not obliged to notify the Canadian Embassy in Tel Aviv nor the Representative Office of Canada in Ramallah.  As a result, Canadian officials may not be able to provide you with consular assistance. 

• Avoid travelling to the Gaza Strip 
• Don’t attempt to break the naval blockade 

Border areas

Border areas with Israel are particularly dangerous and heavily guarded. Landmines are present in certain areas along Israel’s borders. Some minefields have not been clearly marked or fenced. 

Militant activity close to the Israeli barrier in the Golan Heights makes the area extremely dangerous and unstable.

Despite the United Nations-monitored buffer zone between Israel and Syria in the Golan Heights, cross-border gunfire and rocket fires occur with little or no warning. The Israel Defence Forces also conduct military operations in the area, including air strikes.

• Don’t approach the Israeli barrier along the border with Syria in the Golan Heights
• Monitor local media for information on the latest incidents
• Don’t travel east of Highway 98 except to the following cities: 
• Buq’ata 
• Mas’ada 
• Majdal 
• Ghajar 

Egypt 

The border area with Egypt is dangerous due to military operations and smuggling activities.

The Israeli Defence Forces regularly patrols the area to intercept drug smugglers resulting in frequent armed clashes.

The security situation can also deteriorate rapidly due to instability and the risk of terrorist attacks in northern Sinai.

Don’t drive on: 

• south of the intersection of highways 10 and 12
• between Eilat and the Netafim passage

The highways are subject to closure by Israeli authorities without warning.

If you’re planning to travel near the border with Egypt despite this advisory:

• expect roadblocks and checkpoints
• be aware of your surroundings  
• monitor local media to determine where military activity is occurring  

Lebanon 

There is no official international border between Israel and Lebanon. The United Nations observe the “Blue Line,” which separates the two countries, in addition to a fence constructed by Israel on its side of the Blue line. There are sporadic clashes between Israeli and Lebanese armies patrolling along the Blue line.

Landmines are present in the area.

Terrorist groups based in southern Lebanon have fired several rockets from Lebanon into northern Israel, resulting in retaliatory air strikes by the Israel Defence Forces. Further incidents could occur without notice.

Rockets fired from Lebanon have targeted areas near several cities in northern Israel, including:

• Kiryat Shmona

There are ongoing military operations in the following areas:

• Kfar Shouba Hills
• Shebaa Farms

If you choose to travel near the border with Lebanon despite this advisory:

• remain cautious at all times
• monitor local media for any active security alerts
• follow the advice of local authorities

Confrontations and clashes can occur in areas of Jerusalem, including parts of the Old City. Jerusalem has also seen an increased number of terrorist attacks targeting civilians.

During periods of imposed movement restrictions and on religious holidays, exacerbated tensions can lead to security incidents.

There are periodic clashes near the Al-Aqsa Mosque Mosque on the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount, especially during Ramadan.

• Avoid travel to the Old City during periods of exacerbated tensions
• Travel in groups
• Always dress conservatively

The situation remains unpredictable in the West Bank. Tensions have increased in various areas. Violent clashes between Israeli settlers, Palestinians and Israeli defence and security forces frequently occur. Incidents of violence often occur along major roadways and intersections where passing vehicles may be subject to random stops at checkpoints or targeted with stone-throwing and other forms of vandalism.

There are multiple Israeli military checkpoints throughout the West Bank, where there is a greater threat of violent confrontations. Areas in the vicinity of the barrier separating Israel and the West Bank are particularly high-risk.

Due to recent events in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, local authorities may close or restrict access to checkpoints without notice.

Frequent Israeli security operations target individuals in cities and villages throughout the West Bank. There is risk of injury to bystanders during these operations. These incidents occur most frequently in: 

• Hebron 
• Jenin 
• Nablus 

Although violence is usually not common in the cities of Bethlehem, Jericho and Ramallah, there is an increase in violent incidents, especially clashes involving Palestinians, Israeli settlers, the Israeli Security Forces and the Palestinian Authority security forces. 

If you are travelling to the West Bank despite the advisory in effect:

• consider alternate travel arrangements in case of a rapid deterioration in the security situation
• avoid travelling at night
• monitor local and international media
• follow the advice of local authorities 
• register and maintain contact with the Representative Office of Canada in Ramallah 

Politically motivated violence

Politically motivated violence occurs regularly throughout Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.  

Previous incidents resulting in injuries and deaths include: 

• stabbings  
• mob violence
• vehicle ramming  
• stone-throwing at vehicles  

During your stay:

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times 
• Monitor news reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities

Terrorism 

There is a threat of terrorism. In the past few years, there has been an increase in deadly attacks targeting civilians throughout Israel. 

Terrorist incidents causing numerous deaths and injuries have occurred in a variety of locations, including: 

• Beersheba 
• Eilat 
• Haifa 
• Jerusalem 
• Netanya 
• Tel Aviv 

Further attacks are likely. 

Targets could include: 

• government buildings, including schools 
• places of worship 
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks 
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres,markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners 

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant during:

•  sporting events
•  public celebrations
• religious holidays, such as:
• Rosh Hashanah 
• Yom Kippur 
• Pesach (Passover) 
• Ramadan 

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks. 

Rocket fire

Cities across Israel may be targeted by rocket fire from the Gaza Strip or from Lebanon. 

Rockets fired from the Gaza Strip have reached Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, and have also struck close to Haifa, located approximately 150 km north of the Gaza Strip border. 

The crime rate is relatively low in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Despite an important presence of security personnel in major cities, petty crime may still occur in urban and touristic areas and on beaches. There have been reports of:

• pickpocketing
• purse snatching
• theft of passports, credit cards and other valuables

There’s an increase in car thefts.

• make sure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• make sure that your wallet, money and valuables are out of sight, particularly in crowded tourist areas 
• avoid carrying large amounts of cash 
• avoid showing signs of affluence 
• don’t leave luggage or valuables in a vehicle and always park your vehicle in secure facilities 
• keep your car doors locked and windows closed at all times 

Fraud  

Credit card and ATM fraud may occur. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards: 

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others 
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business 
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature 
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN 
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements 

Cybercrime occurs. Online scams and investment fraud against individuals are on the rise in Israel. 

• Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks 
• Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites 
• Be wary of unsolicited emails offering enticing business 
• Never click a suspicious link in an email or text message asking for your credit card details 

Overseas fraud

Demonstrations and strikes

Planned and unplanned demonstrations occur regularly.

Demonstrators frequently gather across Israel to express opposition to the government in place. These demonstrations and strikes often result in disruptions to services and public transportation. They sometimes lead to violent incidents, such as vandalism and clashes between demonstrators and police. Security forces sometimes use tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place 
• Follow the instructions of local authorities 
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations 

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Outages 

Service outages are frequent in the Gaza Strip. This includes disruptions in: 

• telecommunications, including phones and Internet 
• power  
• water services 

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.  

Advice for women travellers

Water activities 

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Tidal changes and strong winds can cause dangerous riptides.  

• Never swim alone
• Always obey warning flags at beaches 
• Keep a safe distance from boats and restricted areas 
• Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings 
• Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks 
• Follow the advice of the local authorities 

Useful links

• Rules of behavior on the beach – Israeli Ministry of Interior 
• Water safety abroad

Road safety 

Road safety can vary considerably in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.  

Road conditions  

Although most roads in Israel are in good condition, many roads in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank are in poor condition.

During the winter months, precipitation can cause difficult driving conditions and road closures across the territory. 

Driving may also be dangerous due to:

• traffic jams and heavy traffic
• narrow, winding and mountainous roads
• flash floods in some regions

Driving habits  

There is a high rate of road accidents due to dangerous driving habits across the territory. Drivers often drive at excessive speed and don’t always respect the right of way, especially in roundabouts.

It’s mandatory to have a high visibility vest and a warning triangle kit in your car. If you must stop on the side of the road and get out of your car, you must wear the vest and use the triangles according to the safety instructions provided.

If you plan to drive: 

• always drive defensively
• plan your trip in advance, especially if you are visiting a rural area 
• always carry a cell phone and charger 
• familiarize yourself with the route before you travel  

Checkpoints 

There are security checkpoints across the territory, mainly in the West Bank.

The Israel Defence Forces control access to the West Bank through a series of security checkpoints and the Palestinian Authority police may do so within their jurisdiction. Following incidents of politically motivated violence, the government of Israel may also establish additional checkpoints without warning and increase the intensity of vehicle checks. Additional measures may include frequent and extended closures of checkpoints at the discretion of Israeli Security Forces.

Officers may ask to see your valid documents. There is no guarantee that you may pass through security checkpoints even if you have a valid visa and authorization to enter.

During periods of religious holidays, checkpoint and border-crossing hours of operation are subject to change.

If travelling by car during your stay: 

• expect multiple roadblocks and checkpoints
• be prepared to present your identification documents 
• don’t pass through checkpoints without stopping, even if they appear unattended 
• follow instructions of police or military officers if you get stopped

Public transportation

Buses .

The bus system is reliable. However, violent incidents occur occasionally in public buses and at bus stops. Attacks have resulted in deaths and injuries in the past.  

If you’re travelling by bus during your stay: 

• be aware of your surroundings at all times 
• stay behind bollards or behind the bus stop while waiting
• stand away from large groups of people 
• notify the driver of any suspicious objects or persons   

Trains 

The train network is extensive. It covers most of the territory and links major cities, such as Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem. The Gaza Strip and some parts of the West Bank are not covered. In order to access train stations, you will have to pass a security check.

The Light Rail in Jerusalem is considered safe from Mount Herzl station up to French Hill station. You should avoid travelling through stations further north.

Trains in Israel are generally modern, clean and frequent.

If you’re travelling by train:

• be vigilant
• avoid travelling alone at night
• allow extra time to go through security checks
• validate your ticket to avoid fines

Taxis 

Taxis are generally reliable in Israel and the West Bank.  

In the West Bank, taxis are the easiest way of moving around.

Mobile applications are also available. 

If you’re taking a taxi:

• never use shared taxis
• negotiate the fare in advance

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Israel, the West Bank or the Gaza Strip.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Business visa: not required Student visa: not required Work visa: required

The Government of Israel issues an entry card on arrival.

You will need your entry card to enter the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.

Keep it in a secure place to avoid complications upon leaving Israel.

Land travel restrictions

The Government of Israel tightly controls checkpoint crossings within the West Bank and to the Gaza Strip.

Security-related closures can severely restrict entry to and exit from these areas, even for persons possessing valid entry and exit permits.

 Large crowds may gather due to:

• limited hours of operations
• unannounced travel restrictions
• extended closures

This may increase risks to your personal safety.

Travel to and from West Bank

The West Bank is divided into three administrative divisions, which fall under varying degrees of administrative and security control between Palestinian and Israeli authorities.

Israel sets out the entry and exit requirements for the West Bank. In some circumstances, Israeli authorities may deny you entry into the West Bank.

You are required to obtain permits with strict conditions for: 

• short-term visits
• professional, academic or volunteering purposes
• temporary residence for spouses

These new procedures apply to all foreign nationals. As a result, you may need a specific type of visa to enter the West Bank based on your purpose of travel.

If you intend to travel to the West Bank:

• contact Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the closest Israeli embassy to find out which type of permit you need to apply for
• ensure that you have the proper and up-to-date identification, travel documentation and authorization to obtain your permit
• plan your visit accordingly and apply well in advance to avoid delays.
• Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada
• Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Travel to and from Gaza Strip

The Erez border crossing, controlled by Israel, is currently closed. There are no options other than the Rafah border crossing, controlled by Egypt, to enter or exit the Gaza Strip.

Due to the ongoing conflict, entry to and exit from the Gaza Strip is currently extremely limited.

Travel to and from Jordan

As a Canadian citizen, you may travel to and from Jordan through the following border crossings:

• Aqaba (Wadi Araba) near Eilat
• King Hussein Bridge (Allenby) near Jericho 
• Sheikh Hussein Bridge (crossing the Jordan River) near Beit She’an.

You may obtain a visa upon arrival at the following border crossings:

• Sheikh Hussein Bridge (crossing the Jordan River) between Israel and Jordan
• Aqaba (Wadi Araba)

You will need to obtain a visa online or from a Jordanian diplomatic mission prior to travelling if you’re planning on entering Jordan at the King Hussein Bridge (Allenby) border crossing. 

Dual citizenship

Israeli-canadians.

Canadians who were born outside Israel to a mother or father who is an Israeli citizen may be considered citizens of Israel.

Israeli law requires Israeli citizens to:

• enter and exit the country on an Israeli passport
• show proof of military status upon arrival

If you are unsure of your Israeli citizenship or your military status, verify it through the Embassy of Israel to Canada or an Israeli consulate before leaving Canada.

Palestinian-Canadians

As a Palestinian-Canadian citizen, you may be subject to Government of Israel travel regulations for Palestinians. Strict border control policies may prevent you from entering to and exiting from: 

• Israel 
• the West Bank 
• the Gaza Strip 

Anyone registered in the Government of Israel’s West Bank and Gaza Strip population registries, including Canadians of Palestinian descent born in the West Bank or Gaza after 1967, is prohibited from entering Israel through Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion International Airport.

Israeli authorities are currently allowing only a limited number of Palestinians to enter into the West Bank via the Allenby Crossing (King Hussein Bridge). This rule may not apply to Palestinians with dual citizenship.

You may also be subject to Government of Israel travel regulations for Palestinians if you are a Canadian born in another Arab state or if you hold dual Canadian-Arab state citizenship.

Israeli authorities may then ask you to enter and exit Israel on your Arab passport.

If the place of birth listed on the traveller’s passport does not have diplomatic relations with Israel, travellers may be subject to increased security screening at points of entry, including extensive questioning, physical searches and/or denial of entry, which can involve temporary detention before removal.

Regional travel

Some Canadians have been denied entry into Lebanon, Syria and other Arab countries because their passports bore:

• an Israeli visa
• an Israeli border stamp
•  an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel

Other entry requirement

Custom officials may ask to show a return or onward ticket as proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Polio: Advice for travellers - 4 January, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country. Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.

Recommendations:

• Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
• One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Leptospirosis   is a bacterial disease that typically causes fever, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, skin rash and eye infection. The disease is spread through direct contact with urine from infected animals or with urine-contaminated water, soil, or food.

Leptospirosis is a risk in this country, especially when participating in freshwater activities (e.g., swimming, rafting), being in areas with poor sanitation, or having close contact with animals, especially rodents. Most travellers are at low risk. There is no vaccine available for leptospirosis.  Travellers at high risk may wish to consult a health care professional about pre-exposure antibiotics.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

The quality of medical care varies greatly throughout the destination. Very good health care is available in Israel and Jerusalem. Good health care is limited in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Medical facilities may lack of medical supplies and adequately trained professionals.

Medical treatment can be very expensive. Hospitals and doctors usually require immediate payment in cash.  

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Medication 

Some prescription medication may not be available in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.  

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality at destination.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you 
• Always keep your medication in the original container 
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage 
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions 

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Israel are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Israel to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Israeli authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Alcohol 

Although alcohol consumption in public is illegal in the Gaza Strip, you can drink alcohol in certain areas in the West Bank.   Avoid drinking alcohol outside licensed premises in the West Bank.  

Photography 

Photography of sensitive installations is prohibited. This includes: 

• military sites 
• police personnel and installations  

Seek permission before taking photos of people in Muslim or Orthodox Jewish areas.  

Both Israeli authorities and the Palestinian Authority recognize dual citizenship.

However, foreign nationals naturalized citizens of Israel must forfeit their previous citizenship.   

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Israel, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Israel.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Israel, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Israeli court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Israel to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Religious holidays

Some Jewish, Christian and Muslim communities' customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to religious practices and beliefs. 

Tensions between religious groups are higher during religious holidays and may lead to violence. 

There is a risk of assault if you travel by car in the Old City of Jerusalem and conservative neighbourhoods of Israel during Shabbat.

To avoid offending local sensitivities, especially during religious holidays:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect social and religious traditions
• seek permission from people and local authorities before taking photographs

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Israel’s law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

The Gaza Strip’s law criminalizes sexual acts and relationships between persons of the same sex. 

2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be detained based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. They may also be detained and face other charges such as: 

• cross-dressing
• gross indecency
• offence to public morals

2SLGBTQI+ travellers could face up to 10 years of imprisonment. They should carefully consider the risks of travelling to the Gaza Strip.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

You may drive in Israel using your Canadian driver’s license for up to 12 months.

Vehicles with Palestinian licence plates are not permitted to enter Israel unless granted a permit by Israeli authorities in advance. If you are planning to enter the West Bank with a rented vehicle, verify your insurance coverage and permissions with your car rental agency.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Useful links 

• More about the International Driving Permit  
• Driving in Israel – The Association of Americans & Canadians in Israel (AACI)

The currency of Israel is the Israeli Shekel (ILS).

Credit cards are not widely accepted in the Gaza Strip.

The Jordanian dinar (JOD) and the US dollar are also widely accepted throughout the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

ATMs are available, but may not accept Canadian cards.

Earthquakes  

Israel, Jerusalem, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip are located in an active seismic zone.

Even minor earthquakes can cause significant damage.

Earthquakes - What to Do?  

Sandstorms and dust storms  

Sandstorms and dust storms occur in spring and summer in some areas. Sand-laden winds can blow at high speeds for days, creating difficult driving conditions. These storms can also lead to respiratory problems for some individuals.

During a sandstorm: 

• stay indoors 
• keep windows closed
• be prepared to change, interrupt or cancel your trip at any time
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Heavy rains, particularly during winter, can cause flooding and landslides throughout the territory.

Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged. 

• Exercise caution, particularly in areas around major rivers 
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts 
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders 

Wildfires 

Wildfires may occur throughout the territory due to high temperatures and dry conditions, particularly during summer. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke. 

In case of a significant fire: 

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments 
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation 

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 100
• medical assistance: 101
• firefighters: 102

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Representative Office of Canada in Ramallah or the Embassy of Canada to Israel, in Tel Aviv, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

What to know about travel safety as the Israel-Hamas war continues

Last Thursday the State Department advised travelers from the U.S. to “exercise increased caution” worldwide because of the Israel-Hamas war , citing “the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.”

The warning “means what it says,” said Jeffrey Price, an aviation security expert and professor of aviation and aerospace science at Metropolitan State University of Denver. “Don’t go to areas where they are actively capturing or killing U.S. citizens, and be careful when going to countries where you could be put in harm’s way simply by being there.” 

But what about trips to Barcelona or Singapore or even just Baton Rouge? Here’s what to consider if you’ve got travel plans on the books or are making them now, given the conflict in the Middle East.

All-purpose safety precautions

In addition to telling U.S. travelers to reconsider travel to Israel and the West Bank and to avoid any travel to Gaza, federal officials also recommend staying especially alert in popular locations anywhere tourists gather globally.

They suggest following State Department accounts on social media for updates and joining the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to make it easier for the agency get in touch with American travelers abroad in case of emergencies.

The State Department has alerts of various levels in effect for many countries because of conflict and other risk factors, but “worldwide caution” advisories are less common. The last one was issued in August 2022 after a U.S. drone strike killed a high-level Al Qaeda leader .

Some national security experts regard last week’s global alert “as one of the most urgent issued in light of the extremely high tensions throughout the Middle East,” said Howard Stoffer, a professor of international affairs at the University of New Haven and a former senior official in the State Department’s Foreign Service.

“This type of alert usually lasts a relatively short time,” he said, but the current one “may last for some period of time.”

If you’re planning upcoming travel, you can monitor the State Department’s travel advisories for any destinations on your itinerary both before and during your trip. The Council on Foreign Relations, a nonpartisan think tank, also maintains an interactive Global Conflict Tracker that provides additional information for specific areas around the world.

Stay alert and listen to the news carefully when out there.

Howard Stoffer, University of New Haven

Experts warn against slipping so deeply into vacation mode that you risk losing sight of potential shifts in the political or security situation on the ground. “Be aware of your surroundings and be sure to cooperate with any increased security measures,” Price said.

Stoffer said, “Stay alert and listen to the news carefully when out there.” Otherwise, exercise the same good judgment you would under any other circumstances, like steering clear of major protests and making sure friends and family back home know where you are.

Israeli flag carrier El Al Airlines is the only airline that continues to fly between the U.S. and Israel, although its website notes that “there may be a change in the departure times of some flights.”

Major U.S.-based airlines that previously offered regular service to Tel Aviv, including American , Delta and United , have issued travel alerts for the Middle East and suspended all flights to Israel. United has also issued a travel alert for its flights to Amman, Jordan, but service there is continuing.

The suspensions include direct flights out of major hubs such as Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, New York City, San Francisco and Washington, D.C., as well as connecting flights on partner airlines, said Scott Keyes of the flight deal website Going.

In general, travelers who booked to Israel on U.S. carriers on or before Oct. 6, the day before Hamas attacked Israel, are typically being offered the option to either cancel their trips and request refunds or to rebook in the same cabin and between the same cities on different dates with no change fees or fare differences. (United is also offering to waive change fees on flights to Amman.)

“These waivers apply regardless of what fare class you’ve booked,” Keyes said. “Even otherwise restrictive basic economy tickets may be rescheduled or canceled for a full cash refund.”

Right now, the rebooking options are available through Dec. 31 on United, from Dec. 5 through Jan. 31 on American and through Sept. 6, 2024, on Delta.

Travelers can expect to see a larger law enforcement and canine presence.

TSA spokesperson Robert Langston

With Delta having already extended the dates of its rebooking provisions, Keyes said, “it’s all but certain other U.S. airlines will extend their travel waivers for at least as long as the escalated hostilities continue.”

At airports and other transportation hubs, “travelers can expect to see a larger law enforcement and canine presence,” said Robert Langston, a spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration.

The TSA is operating at a “heightened level of security as a result of world events and the current threat environment,” he said. Officials there and at its parent agency, the Department of Homeland Security, will continue to monitor the situation and adjust their security measures as needed.

Security checkpoints lines at airports could get longer because of the increased measures, Price said, but “if things are getting out of hand, TSA can also speed up lines by reducing random checks.”

A handful of cruise lines have made changes to scheduled sailings in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East, said Aaron Saunders, a senior editor at Cruise Critic.

“The changes range from the cancellation of full sailing seasons to adjustments to itineraries that remove select ports,” he said. 

Windstar Cruises, Royal Caribbean and MSC are among the cruise lines that have pulled all their ships out of the region because of the conflict, Cruise Critic has reported , while Norwegian Cruise Line has informed passengers on a coming Rome-to-Athens cruise that stops in Israel will be skipped.

“Cruise lines have teams dedicated to monitoring the latest news and updates and reserve the right to adjust their plans as they see most fit,” Saunders said.

He encourages anyone with a cruise reservation to watch for emails from the operator for updates on specific sailings, as well as any compensation being offered for significantly affected ones. For those considering a cruise to the region, “we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance,” Saunders added.

Travel insurance 

Many travel insurance policies already provide cancellation and interruption benefits in the event a terrorist attack affects a trip, according to published guidelines from the travel insurance comparison platform SquareMouth.

But in most cases, those benefits kick in only for policies purchased before the date of the attack, meaning such coverage would apply for the current conflict only on insurance taken out on or before Oct. 6.

Travelers with coming trips to Israel who have cancellation and interruption benefits may be reimbursed for 100% of their trip expenses if they need to cancel, SquareMouth noted. Travelers planning to visit Israel as part of trips may also be covered if they need to cut their itineraries short.

Harriet Baskas is an NBC News contributor who writes about travel and the arts.

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Is it safe to travel to Israel?

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Israel launched a major raid on a Jenin refugee camp – a Palestinian militant stronghold in the Israeli-occupied West Bank – on 3 July, killing at least a dozen Palestinians in clashes with gunmen.

On Tuesday (4 July), a suspected Palestinian car-ramming and stabbing attack injured at least eight people in Tel Aviv.

While the Israeli military has confirmed it had withdrawn troops from the West Bank, ending an intense two-day operation that has driven thousands of people from their homes, Israeli forces launched air strikes on the northern part of the Gaza Strip on Wednesday morning (5 July) after saying that rockets were fired towards Israel from the same area.

Is it still safe to travel to Israel amid the escalating unrest? Here are the key questions and answers.

Where is Jenin?

Jenin is a small city in the hilly, far north of the West Bank, and contains the eponymous concrete and cinder-block refugee camp housing around 14,000 people. They are descendants of Palestinians dispossessed when Israel was created in 1948, and most are impoverished and unemployed.

Can I travel to Israel right now?

Yes. Flights from the UK are operating as usual, with direct flights from London and Manchester to Tel Aviv.

• Israel-Palestine latest: Netanyahu warns of another deadly raid on Jenin
• Palestinians inspect damage after Israel ends raid of West Bank camp and warns it was not a one-off
• Thousands flee Israel’s biggest West Bank military operation in decades

The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) warns against all but essential travel to the city of Jenin, as well as areas north of and including Jenin city, Burqin and Arranah in the north of the West Bank. This includes Jenin refugee camp and all areas north of this until the Jalamah checkpoint for access to Israel.

The FCDO also advises against all but essential travel to the city of Nablus, Joseph’s Tomb, and the Balata and New Askar refugee camps near Nablus, plus the village of Huwara, south of Nablus.

However, it’s worth noting that this advice is not related to current the Israel military action; before the 3 July raid, this guidance was already in place.

The FCDO advises against all travel to Gaza, the Sheba’a Farms and Ghajjar, and within 500m of the border with Lebanon (the “Blue Line’”) east of Metula, including the northern edge of the town, and within 500m of the border with Syria (the “Alpha Line”).

Across Israel and the West Bank, “there is a risk of violent incidents, including stabbings, shootings, arson, vehicle rammings and stone throwing attacks on people and vehicles,” says the FCDO, with “a risk that tourists or bystanders could be caught up in any of these types of incident”.

“You should check the local news before travelling to see if there have been recent clashes, be vigilant, avoid any large gatherings or demonstrations, avoid areas which have been the site of recent violence and follow the instructions of the local authorities,” adds the FCDO.

The US State Department does not advise against travel to Israel but suggests visitors “exercise increased caution”; it does warn that people should not travel to Gaza.

Is it safe to visit Israel?

As with the recent unrest in France , it depends on where you go. The main tourist areas, such as Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, the Negev, Nazareth, and the Dead Sea remain relatively safe, and the majority of trouble occurs in areas tourists wouldn’t normal venture to. According to Tourist Israel, a travel service provider in the country, while it’s “understandable to be cautious” about visiting, Israel is “statistically very safe to travel within”.

Can I cancel my trip to Israel?

The FCDO has not warned against travelling to Israel, so you won’t be entitled to a refund if you postpone or cancel your trip.

If the advice were to change and the FCDO advised against all but essential travel to Israel and you went ahead with a trip anyway, you would likely not be covered by travel insurance. (However, if FCDO advice changes after you’ve bought an insurance policy, you may still be covered; check the terms and conditions).

• My daughter has been crying non-stop since the Jenin assault began

If you are concerned about visiting Israel, speak to your airline and/or holiday provider to discuss your options.

If the FCDO issues a warning while you are in an affected region, you will be covered as normal under the medical and personal accident sections of your travel insurance policy, so long as you follow the latest FCDO advice for British nationals already in the area.

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Tel Aviv   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Ilan Shacham | Getty Images

Why Go To Tel Aviv

Don't get confused, Tel Aviv is definitely not Jerusalem . Although they're less than 50 miles apart, Tel Aviv lacks the historic significance of the Holy City. In place of religious sites and ancient ruins, Tel Aviv features world-class beaches and rip-roaring nightlife. Tradition in Tel Aviv consists of Friday night revelry rather than quiet reflecting, and kosher cuisine is overshadowed by a wealth of international culinary delights.

Tel Aviv's love of the arts and culture shines through it's fantastic (albeit few) museums. If you've come to see the sights though, you won't need more than a couple of days here. The purpose of your visit shouldn't be to just see Tel Aviv, it should be to fully experience it. Once you've had your fill of museum hopping, let yourself fall into the rhythm of this modern Mediterranean metropolis. Devote your days to lounging on its beaches or meandering through the streets of Jaffa . And when night falls, allow yourself to be swept up by the luring hum of club music and the nonstop flow of cocktails.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

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Best of Tel Aviv

Best hotels in tel aviv.

• in Crowne Plaza Tel Aviv City Center
• in Dan Tel Aviv
• in West All Suite Boutique Tel Aviv

Best Things to Do in Tel Aviv

• # 1 in The Tayelet
• # 2 in Neve Tzedek
• # 3 in Jaffa

Popular Tours

Masada and the Dead Sea Day Trip from Tel Aviv

(1002 reviews)

from $ 120.00

Day Tour to Jerusalem and Bethlehem from Tel Aviv

(717 reviews)

from $ 121.00

Travel To Bethlehem, Jericho & Jordan River - Group Guided Tour from Jerusalem

(127 reviews)

from $ 89.00

Tel Aviv Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Tel Aviv are March through April and September through November. Spring and fall mark this city's "sweet" tourism spots, boasting pleasant temperatures and affordable prices. Despite the intense heat, most travelers head to Tel Aviv during the summer months, determined to hit the beaches and return home with a tan. Between May and August, expect inflated prices. The winter months also see a spike in tourism as travelers from northern countries (particularly in Europe) come to thaw.

Weather in Tel Aviv

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• You'll feel welcome Israelis and Arabs live side-by-side here, only parting ways to let an American beach-bum or European backpacker pass. The streets echo with Hebrew and Arabic, but English-speakers aren't hard to come by.
• Avoid talking politics Tel Aviv is a very safe city, and you're unlikely to witness any of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. That doesn't mean you should talk about it though, keep strong opinions to yourself.
• Stand your ground Israelis are notorious line-cutters. You're bound to witness locals pushing their way past you. Don't hesitate to speak up if someone cuts you off; assertiveness is completely acceptable here.

How to Save Money in Tel Aviv

• Opt for two wheels rather than four Tel Aviv is a fairly flat city and many of its roads sport new bike lanes, which makes for perfect biking conditions. You can help pad your budget by renting a bike from Tel-O-Fun , the city’s short-term bike rental service, rather than splurging on taxis or a rental car.
• Don't hire a guide There's no reason to pay someone to show you around when you can simply tag along on one of the free guided neighborhood tours offered by Tel Aviv Global & Tourism .
• Stick to regional cuisine While you can find fantastic fare from all around the globe, you'll save money by sticking to regional specialties like falafel and kebabs. Some of the best (and cheapest) eats can be found along Etzel Street in southern Tel Aviv's HaTikva District.

Culture & Customs

Tel Aviv is a laid-back city where people from all walks of life come to share a beach umbrella or a cafe table. Here, the Sabbath is more commonly celebrated with a night out on the town rather than an evening of prayer.

This freewheeling debauchery wasn't necessarily the ambition of the Tel Aviv's founders. The city came to life in the early 1900s when a small group of Jewish people migrated north from the cramped living conditions of Jaffa , which was a predominantly Arab town at the time. In 1921, riots in Jaffa drove roughly 40,000 inhabitants to the tiny settlement, while the outbreak of World War II caused another large influx of residents. To accommodate the rapidly growing population, Tel Aviv underwent an extreme expansion, both outward and upward. Today, the city is characterized by modern skyscrapers and wide boulevards.

This is a very diverse city because its residents come from all corners of the globe. Strolling down the street, you'll come across a variety of people and cultures, which range from Orthodox Jews to Arabs to European expats. Hebrew and Arabic are the dominant languages here, but the majority of people you'll interact with here speak English as well.

The Israeli new shekel (commonly referred to as the Israeli shekel) is Tel Aviv's official currency. One shekel is divided into 100 agorot (singular is agora). Money can be changed in small exchange bureaus, banks or hotels. (Most banks are only open Sunday through Friday until noon, then again from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.) One shekel is equal to approximately $0.30, but the shekel to dollar rate often fluctuates, so check the latest exchange rate before you go. Major credit cards are also accepted in most transactions (excluding taxis).

What to Eat

As a city of immigrants, Tel Aviv's diversity has led to an extremely eclectic culinary scene. You'll find crowded cafes rubbing elbows with restaurants that serve everything from Mediterranean specialties to sushi. Must-try delicacies include hummus masabacha (hummus with whole chickpeas, paprika and tahini), kanafeh (Palestinian dessert pastry of cheese that is soaked in syrup) and sabich (eggplant sandwich with tons of toppings).

For an eclectic Mediterranean menu, head to Night Kitchen , beloved by visitors for its fun ambiance and shareable plates. Plus, Sunday through Thursday the restaurant offers a happy hour special in which everything on the menu is 50 percent off. If you're looking for seafood-focused dishes, travelers suggest you visit Shila – Sharon Cohen’s Kitchen & Bar . For Middle Eastern fare, the trendy Santa Katarina earns favorable reviews for its ever-changing menu and intimate courtyard setting across from a synagogue.

Kosher options are slightly harder to find in Tel Aviv in comparison to other cities in Israel, but there are several popular options. Falafel Hakosem receives rave reviews from locals and tourists alike thanks to its hummus, falafel, shawarma and sabich. Expect crowds, especially around lunch, for this fast-casual spot. The House of Hummus , which specializes in hummus dishes, is another popular lunch outpost, as is the unassuming Abu Hassan . For a wide variety of cafes, head to the Neve Tzedek neighborhood ( Dallal Bakery is a favorite).

The dress code is casual at most Tel Aviv establishments, and all of the city’s restaurants accept Israeli shekels.

Tel Aviv's varied religious and political affiliations may raise some safety concerns. But while the Israeli-Palestinian conflict may be the subject of heated debates, the city has not been a target of political violence since the 1990s. While visiting Tel Aviv, you should feel completely safe in public areas. However, remember that this is a big city: Keep an eye on your valuables and avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.

Getting Around Tel Aviv

The best way to get around Tel Aviv is by bike. The city is relatively flat, and many of the top attractions are located fairly close to one another, making it easy to navigate on two wheels. Buses run frequently (although less so on Fridays and Saturdays during the Sabbath) and offer an affordable way to get from downtown Tel Aviv to neighborhoods like Jaffa . For cheap (albeit slow) transportation to Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV), located about 11 miles southeast of downtown, you should rely on the train. You can also take a taxi or bus from the airport; you'll get into town more quickly in a taxi, but you'll pay much more than you would for the bus. Ride-hailing services, such as Uber, also service the city, but they only call licensed taxi drivers.

Entry & Exit Requirements

The Israeli government does not require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your arrival, but many airlines do. You will also need to show a return or onward ticket and sufficient proof of funds to enter the country. Expect heightened security screenings at the airport; the Israeli government has been known to deny travelers entry based on background checks. The government will also deny entry to anyone looking to travel to the West Bank or Gaza. You can learn more by visiting the U.S. State Department website .

Set on a grid, Tel Aviv's wide, relatively uncongested streets, ample bike lanes, and (of course) the scenic Tayelet  

Make sure you're by the water at sunset to catch a spectacular scene like this.

Explore More of Tel Aviv

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Is it Safe to Travel to Tel Aviv?

Tel Aviv has a well-deserved reputation for white sandy beaches, quirky independent cafes, fantastic bars, and legendary nightlife, With its tree-lined streets, Mediterranean feel, and young and liberal population, it’s an incredibly popular place to visit, and plenty of PRO  guided trips in Tel Aviv will show you its splendor.  

However, watching the news can often leave people thinking of visiting a bit anxious - wondering if Israel is a ‘hotspot’ for trouble turmoil or war. Not surprisingly then. we’re always asked if it’s safe to travel to Tel Aviv. And we always say ‘yes’ in return, because whilst there are things to watch out for (as with every city you visit, as a tourist) it’s still remarkably safe and friendly.  

Is Tel Aviv a safe city to walk around at night?

Tel Aviv is known as the Non-Stop City and with good reason - it’s a place where there’s action 24/7 and no more so than when the sun goes down. Known for its vibrant scene, it’s got plenty of bars that stay open until very late and nightclubs that often don’t close until the sun has risen!  

The good news, however, is that it’s an incredibly safe destination to walk around. For much of the year, because the temperature is so clement, you’ll see people out and about way after midnight, and at 3 am it’s not rare to see locals on the streets walking their dogs, popping out to the convenience stores, eating ice-cream or simply coming home from a night out on the town.

Violent crime is extremely rare and, should you feel uncomfortable and shout out on the street, the chances are that ten friendly locals will run to your aid. As with all cities, you should be careful with your belongings (don’t leave them unattended on the beach, if you decide to go into the Mediterranean for a quick dip) but it’s surprising just how honest people are and how you’ll often see things left behind in cafes and on buses returned to their owners.   

What’s the political situation like in Tel Aviv?

The Middle East has a reputation for being a volatile part of the world and, for sure, some tensions flare up and abate, periodically, in this part of the world. Israel has had its share of ups and downs since the establishment of the state in 1948, and if you watch the news from far away, it often seems that it’s a dangerous place.

However, it's quite common for tourists to arrive in Israel and head to Tel Aviv and soon be shaking their heads at how laid back and ‘chilled out’ the city is. Tel Aviv has a reputation for being a bit of a party city, but even those who don’t party often find themselves wiling away their days drinking coffee and soaking up the sun’s rays, rather than worrying about the state of the world.

During 2023 however, large rallies and anti-government protests have sprung up throughout the country, with their largest always being in Tel Aviv. They began weekly, on Saturday nights, at Kaplan Street, in the Sarona area, but some are held mid-week and in the day.

The vast majority of the time, protests are very peaceful although occasionally there has been some conflict between the police and protestors. However, since these rallies and gatherings are being held in an area far from where tourists usually visit (Kaplan Street is not close to the beach the shopping area of Dizengoff, or the beautiful backstreets and the old Jaffa Port ) the chances are that you may not even be aware that protests are being held.

Finally, it’s important to remember that Israelis are very vocal when it comes to politics - no one holds back, everyone is very clear in their opinions, and often when you see two people yelling at each other in the street, this means nothing more than they’re having a high-spirited discussion!  

What kind of situations should I be vigilant about in Tel Aviv?

As we’ve said, Tel Aviv is a very safe city, compared to many you’ll travel in Europe or North America, but there will always be people trying to pull the wool over your eyes, wherever you travel.  The main things you might want to watch out for are:

1. Taxis.  If you’re going to be taking a cab, either ask the driver to put the meter on before setting off (you can insist upon it - it’s the law) or agree on a price beforehand. If you have a smartphone, you can download the ‘Gett’ app and order a taxi directly, rather than take your chances with one on the street.

2. Bicycle Theft.  This is the most common kind of theft in Tel Aviv - seriously! If you are renting a bike privately (which is not a City Bike) then make sure you have a good lock with you.

3. Pickpockets. As with any big city, you’re always going to have to be vigilant when it comes to your possessions. Most theft takes place on the beach (as we said, if you want to take a dip ask a friendly local or fellow tourist to guard your wallet and phone!  

Is Tel Aviv a safe place for women to travel alone?

Israel is a modern and liberal country where women are active and involved in every part of society. Tel Aviv is, by far and away, the most progressive part of the country, and very modern in every sense of the word, so it’s a great place for females to travel alone.

Not only does everyone speak English, which helps if you need to ask for help  (and many people speak Russian, French, and Spanish too), but women who travel to Israel alone consistently say how safe they feel. The streets are well-lit at night (and busy) and the locals are very friendly. Chances are that if a man did harass you and you told someone on the street about it, they’d go and shout at him!  

Of course, if a woman is traveling solo, but wants to meet others on her trip, there’s always the option of booking an organized tour - whether you want to rent a bike, explore the Jaffa Flea Market , or go on a food tour in Carmel Market , there will be other people who want the same thing and it’s a good chance for you to make new friends. 

The Bottom Line: How Safe Is Tel Aviv?

Tel Aviv has just had a bumper tourist summer and the coming months look busy too so we have no hesitation whatsoever in telling you to visit. Of course, if you feel even the slightest bit nervous, you can always book an organized package tour to Israel - this way, your accommodation and itinerary will be organized for you and you’ll also have a guide with you, just in case you have any problems or simply want advice on where to buy your souvenirs from Israel! 

  Whether it’s your first time in Israel  or you’re a returning visitor, there’s so much going on, and, having been in this business for over 30 years, we’re old hands at knowing what kinds of things people like to do on holiday in the Holy Land. All of our guides are certified and licensed by the Ministry of Tourism and between them speak several languages. We offer all kinds of accommodation and whether you’re a Christian pilgrim, a backpacker or simply looking for a holiday with family-friendly activities in Israel , we can help.

So If you have any questions or queries or would like to know more about all the day trips, privately-guided tours, and packages we offer to Israel, and also to Jordan, don’t hesitate to contact us by email or phone .

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Middle East Crisis C.I.A. Director Is Heading to Cairo for New Truce Talks

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• A destroyed house in Rafah in southern Gaza. Reuters
• Mourning relatives killed during strikes in Rafah. Fatima Shbair/Associated Press
• Blocking a road in Tel Aviv to call for the return of hostages taken during the Oct. 7 attack led by Hamas. Jack Guez/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
• A camp for displaced people in Rafah. Mohammed Abed/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
• A house destroyed in a strike in Deir al Balah, in central Gaza. Mohammed Saber/EPA, via Shutterstock
• Aid dropped into northern Gaza. Leo Correa/Associated Press
• Palestinians searching for survivors under the rubble of a house after an Israeli airstrike in Rafah. Haitham Imad/EPA, via Shutterstock
• Israeli soldiers near the Israel-Gaza border. Hannah Mckay/Reuters
• A poster on Wednesday in Tehran of Gen. Mohammad Reza Zahedi, who was killed in an Israeli strike in Damascus, Syria. Arash Khamooshi for The New York Times

The C.I.A. director is heading to Cairo for new hostage talks.

The C.I.A. director, William J. Burns, is expected to travel to Cairo this weekend for further talks on releasing Israeli hostages being held in Gaza, according to two people briefed on the plans.

American officials believe negotiating a pause in fighting between Israel and Hamas and the exchange of Israeli hostages held in Gaza for Palestinian prisoners held in Israel is the only way to put a temporary cease-fire into effect and increase the flow of humanitarian aid into the enclave.

Mr. Burns, a key figure in the continuing negotiations, is expected to be joined by David Barnea, the head of Mossad, Israel’s spy agency, and negotiators from Egypt and Qatar. Neither the Americans nor the Israelis speak directly to Hamas. Instead, their proposals are relayed through Egyptian and Qatari officials, who speak to members of Hamas.

Mr. Burns’s travel plans were earlier reported by The Wall Street Journal on Thursday.

The talks between Mr. Burns, Mr. Barnea and the other officials are set to begin on Sunday, according to one of the people briefed on the talks.

American officials said U.S. negotiators intend to deliver the message that the United States wants Israel to work toward a deal and not let small requests from Hamas or details of proposals derail the larger goal of beginning a phased approach of freeing the hostages.

The cease-fire talks have been stuck for weeks. This round will be taking place after President Biden spoke to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel by phone on Thursday, repeating his call for a negotiated deal that would result in an “immediate cease-fire” and the release of hostages taken by Hamas.

Negotiators have at times seen the possibility of breakthroughs, only to have setbacks. A push for a deal before the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan last month also was unsuccessful .

The current sticking point appears to be the return of Palestinians to northern Gaza, a main Hamas demand that Israel has been reluctant to give in to, according to people briefed on the talks.

Mr. Burns, a seasoned diplomat and negotiator before he became the C.I.A. leader, has put various proposals on the table, prodding parties to endorse plans to take to Hamas. It is not clear if Mr. Burns will be taking a new deal to the meetings.

Negotiations have been slow in part because it can take two days or more to relay proposals from negotiating sessions to Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader in Gaza and the presumed mastermind of the Oct. 7 attack on Israel. Mr. Sinwar has been approving all Hamas counterproposals on hostage negotiations. He is believed to be hiding in the tunnels under Gaza, protected from Israeli raids by a group of hostages he is using as human shields.

— Julian E. Barnes reporting From Washington

Israel to open another crossing for aid after pressure from Biden.

Israel has agreed to open another crossing and increase the flow of aid getting into Gaza, a move seemingly aimed at tempering the U.S. president’s growing frustration over the dire humanitarian crisis in the enclave.

The Israeli government confirmed the new measures in an overnight statement, after the Biden administration announced them late Thursday after a tense phone call between President Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. During the call, Mr. Biden threatened to condition future support for Israel on how it addresses his concerns about civilian casualties and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

In a statement, a spokeswoman for the National Security Council said that Israel had agreed to open the Erez crossing to allow aid into northern Gaza, to use the port of Ashdod to direct aid into the enclave and to significantly increase deliveries from Jordan — “at the president’s request.”

“These steps,” the spokeswoman, Adrienne Watson, said, “must now be fully and rapidly implemented.”

The Israeli government did not say when it would open Erez crossing, a checkpoint between Israel and northern Gaza that Hamas attacked on Oct. 7 and that Israel had refused to re-open since. It said only that Israel would allow the “temporary delivery” of aid through the Erez crossing and the port of Ashdod, which sits about 16 miles north of Gaza on Israel’s Mediterranean coast.

Israel has come under rising pressure from U.S. officials and humanitarian agencies to open more border crossings for aid amid warnings from the United Nations that famine looms after nearly six months of war.

Mr. Biden has grown increasingly critical of Israel’s approach to the war against Hamas in Gaza, saying that more must be done to protect civilians. The killing of seven aid workers this week by Israeli forces appeared to bring that to a head, with Mr. Biden saying he was “outraged” and that Israel has “not done enough to protect civilians.”

That frustration carried over into his call with Mr. Netanyahu on Thursday, when Mr. Biden tried for the first time to leverage American aid to influence the conduct of the war against Hamas — prompting Israel to commit to letting more food and supplies into Gaza.

“As the president said today on the call, U.S. policy with respect to Gaza will be determined by our assessment of Israel’s immediate action on these and other steps, including steps to protect innocent civilians and the safety of aid workers,” Ms. Watson said in the statement.

The most dire shortages are in northern Gaza, where desperation has prompted people to swarm trucks carrying assistance and where aid groups say they have struggled to deliver supplies because of Israeli restrictions and widespread lawlessness.

Nearly all of the aid allowed into Gaza since the war began has entered through two main crossing points: Kerem Shalom and Rafah, which are both in the southern part of the enclave. But getting truck convoys from the southern border crossings to the north is difficult and dangerous, and the route is sometimes blocked by roads damaged by Israeli bombardment, Israeli checkpoints or battles between Hamas fighters and Israeli troops.

Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III, in a call with his Israeli counterpart on Wednesday, also “raised the need for the rapid increase of aid coming through all crossings in the coming days,” according to the Pentagon.

Late last month, the International Court of Justice in The Hague ordered Israel to ensure the “provision of unhindered aid” into Gaza, using some of its strongest language yet. Israel has rejected accusations that it is responsible for delays in the delivery of aid.

Patrick Kingsley contributed reporting.

— Cassandra Vinograd and Erica L. Green

Biden tells Netanyahu that U.S. support hinges on treatment of Gaza civilians.

President Biden threatened on Thursday to condition future support for Israel on how it addresses his concerns about civilian casualties and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, prompting Israel to commit to permitting more food and other supplies into the besieged enclave in hopes of placating him.

During a tense 30-minute call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, Mr. Biden for the first time leveraged U.S. aid to influence the conduct of the war against Hamas that has inflamed many Americans and others around the world. The announcement of additional aid routes hours later met some but not all of Mr. Biden’s demands.

“President Biden emphasized that the strikes on humanitarian workers and the overall humanitarian situation are unacceptable,” according to a White House summary of the call. “He made clear the need for Israel to announce and implement a series of specific, concrete, and measurable steps to address civilian harm, humanitarian suffering, and the safety of aid workers. He made clear that U.S. policy with respect to Gaza will be determined by our assessment of Israel’s immediate action on these steps.”

The statement was the sharpest the White House has issued on Israel’s conduct in the six months of its war against Hamas, underscoring the president’s growing frustration with Mr. Netanyahu and his anger over this week’s killing of seven aid workers by Israeli military forces. But while the president repeated his call for a negotiated deal that would result in an “immediate cease-fire” and the release of hostages taken by Hamas, White House officials stopped short of saying directly that he might limit U.S. arms supplies if not satisfied.

By the middle of the night in Jerusalem, Israel made its first gestures to Mr. Biden. In a statement, the government said it would increase aid deliveries to Gaza, including through the port of Ashdod and the Erez crossing, a checkpoint between Israel and northern Gaza that Hamas attacked on Oct. 7 and Israel had kept closed ever since. The statement did not say when the crossing would be reopened.

Biden administration officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe the private call in more detail, said that Mr. Netanyahu agreed to additional commitments intended to assuage the president. Among others, the officials said, Israel would promise to institute more measures to reduce civilian casualties and to empower negotiators brokering a temporary cease-fire deal in exchange for the release of hostages.

The reported agreement came as American officials held out the prospect of consequences if Mr. Netanyahu resisted. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, who dialed into the call between the president and prime minister, said afterward that Israel needed to do more to increase the flow of humanitarian supplies to Gaza, a challenge that has expanded exponentially since the attack on aid workers prompted some groups to reconsider their activities on the ground .

“If we lose that reverence for human life, we risk becoming indistinguishable from those we confront,” Mr. Blinken said during a stop at NATO headquarters in Brussels. “Here’s the current reality in Gaza despite important steps that Israel has taken to allow assistance into Gaza: The results on the ground are woefully insufficient and unacceptable.”

The secretary of state made clear that the Biden administration was now ready to exact a price if Israel continued to rebuff its counsel. “If we don’t see the changes that we need to see, there’ll be changes in policy,” he said.

The president has long refused to curb the arms flow to influence Israel’s approach to the war. Mr. Biden said after Hamas killed 1,200 people and took hundreds of hostages in October that his support for Israel was “rock solid and unwavering.” While he has increasingly criticized what he sees as the excesses of the military operation, he has until now stuck by his vow.

But with rising agitation on the political left, particularly in electoral swing states like Michigan, even some of Mr. Biden’s closest Democratic allies are coming around to the view that Washington should exercise more control over the weaponry, including Senator Chris Coons, a fellow Democrat from Delaware and confidant of the president.

“I think we’re at that point,” Mr. Coons said on CNN on Thursday morning. If Mr. Netanyahu were to order the Israeli military into the southern Gaza city of Rafah in force and “drop thousand-pound bombs and send in a battalion to go after Hamas and make no provision for civilians or for humanitarian aid,” he added, then “I would vote to condition aid to Israel.”

Mr. Netanyahu did not immediately release a description of his call with Mr. Biden, but in other comments on Thursday he appeared unbowed. In a meeting in Jerusalem with visiting Republican lawmakers organized by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, known as AIPAC, the prime minister pushed back strongly against Mr. Biden’s longstanding insistence on a two-state solution to the Palestinian conflict.

“There is a contrary move, an attempt to force, ram down our throats a Palestinian state, which will be another terror haven, another launching ground for an attempt, as was the Hamas state in Gaza,” Mr. Netanyahu said. “That is opposed by Israelis, overwhelmingly.”

In a separate video statement, he focused on the threat he sees from Iran. “For years, Iran has been acting against us, both directly and through its proxies, and therefore Israel is acting against Iran and its proxies, in both defensive and offensive operations,” Mr. Netanyahu said, referring to an Israeli airstrike that killed seven Iranian military officers in Syria this week.

“We will know how to defend ourselves,” he added, “and we will operate according to the simple principle by which those who attack us or plan to attack us — we will attack them.”

The White House statement noted that Mr. Biden stood by Israel against Iran during his Thursday call with Mr. Netanyahu, which in addition to Mr. Blinken included Vice President Kamala Harris and Jake Sullivan, the national security adviser.

“The two leaders also discussed public Iranian threats against Israel and the Israeli people,” the statement said. “President Biden made clear that the United States strongly supports Israel in the face of those threats.”

Unlike previous comments, however, the latest White House statement made no mention of Oct. 7 nor the by-now ritual defense of Israel’s right to respond to Hamas. Instead, it emphasized that “an immediate cease-fire is essential” and said that Mr. Biden “urged the prime minister to empower his negotiators to conclude a deal without delay to bring the hostages home.” A person briefed on the situation, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said negotiators including William J. Burns, the C.I.A. director, will travel to Cairo on Saturday for further talks on such a deal.

At a briefing after the call between the leaders, John F. Kirby, a White House spokesman, said the president wants to see “concrete tangible steps” to reduce the violence against civilians and increase access for humanitarian aid to Gaza and predicted that Israel would make announcements of specific changes within hours or days.

But Mr. Kirby would not outline specific metrics for judging Israel’s response or what Mr. Biden would do if not satisfied. “What we want to see are some real changes on the Israeli side and, you know, if we don’t see changes from their side, there will have to be changes from our side,” he said.

Some Israel supporters criticized Mr. Biden for giving in to pressure from the left, arguing that it could prolong the war by emboldening Israel’s enemies. “Hamas, Iran, Hezbollah, and the rest of the destroy-Israel axis are sitting back and reveling in the growing tensions and signs of a coming breach between Washington and Jerusalem,” said John Hannah, a senior fellow at the Jewish Institute for National Security of America.

The pivot stemmed from the killing of the seven aid workers, who were deployed in Gaza by World Central Kitchen, the humanitarian group founded by the celebrity chef José Andrés. Mr. Biden called himself “ outraged and heartbroken ” over the incident and made a point of calling Mr. Andrés to express his condolences.

Inside World Central Kitchen’s Work in Gaza

World central kitchen has suspended its relief efforts in gaza after seven aid workers were killed in israeli airstrikes on monday. videos reveal the challenges of food distribution in a territory under siege..

Zomi Frankcom and Damian Soból arrived in Gaza on a mission to feed Palestinians, documenting their efforts in social media videos like these. Then on April 1, they were killed by Israeli airstrikes, along with five other colleagues, bringing the work of the World Central Kitchen in Gaza to a halt. The charity’s videos offer a rare window into the challenges of food distribution in Gaza, a territory on the brink of famine that’s been cut off from the outside world. Celebrity chef José Andrés started World Central Kitchen in 2010 in response to the earthquake in Haiti. The organization brings meals to areas impacted by natural disasters or conflict, including communities displaced inside Israel after the Oct. 7 attacks. Since October, the group said it delivered more than 43 million meals to Palestinians through community kitchens, truck convoys and airdrops. In mid-March, they were the first to deliver aid by sea with a ship carrying nearly 200 tons of food from Cyprus. The Israeli military released footage of the coordination behind that effort, which brought food to northern Gaza, where the U.N. says people are facing catastrophic levels of hunger. “I’m very hopeful that we can be bringing millions and millions of meals daily. We may fail, but the biggest failure will be not trying.” A second maritime delivery arrived just hours before the attack. In a video statement, the Israeli military called the attack a grave mistake. Since Oct. 7, nearly 200 aid workers have been killed in Gaza, according to the U.N. And for now, the World Central Kitchen has suspended its operations there.

The seven workers were killed by three successive strikes on three cars traveling along a road in Gaza. Israeli officials have called the episode a tragic mistake based on a misidentification of the vehicles, but have not explained more expansively how it happened. The cars were marked with World Central Kitchen logos, although the attack took place at night. Mr. Andrés has said his organization kept in touch with Israeli officials about movement plans.

As of Thursday morning, the Israelis had not yet communicated any initial findings of their promised investigation into the strikes to the United States, according to a senior Biden administration official who insisted on anonymity to detail internal conversations.

Mr. Biden’s shift on Thursday came as he absorbed withering criticism from Democrats. Among those speaking out have been former colleagues in the administration he served as vice president under President Barack Obama, who assailed him for voicing shock without taking action against Mr. Netanyahu, known by the nickname Bibi.

“The U.S. government is still supplying 2 thousand pound bombs and ammunition to support Israel’s policy,” Ben Rhodes, a former deputy national security adviser to Mr. Obama, wrote on social media on Wednesday. “Until there are substantive consequences, this outrage does nothing. Bibi obviously doesn’t care what the U.S. says, its about what the U.S. does.”

Jon Favreau, a former chief speechwriter for Mr. Obama, was even more derisive of Mr. Biden. “The president doesn’t get credit for being ‘privately enraged’ when he still refuses to use leverage to stop the IDF from killing and starving innocent people,” he wrote, referring to the Israel Defense Forces. “These stories only make him look weak.”

Some Palestinian advocates reacted with aggravation to Mr. Biden’s articulation of anger over the deaths of the aid workers because in their view he has not responded with nearly enough indignation over the killing of more than 32,000 people living in Gaza, most of them civilians.

The president evidently has taken heat even from within his own family. Mr. Biden told Muslim community leaders at the White House on Tuesday evening that the first lady, Jill Biden, had weighed in , telling him, “Stop it, stop it now, Joe.”

Julian E. Barnes , Katie Rogers and David E. Sanger contributed reporting from Washington, Patrick Kingsley from Jerusalem and Lara Jakes from Brussels.

— Peter Baker Reporting from Washington

A call for early elections by a member of Netanyahu’s war cabinet highlights the domestic pressure he is under.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel is facing challenges on multiple fronts, with his domestic support appearing to erode at a time when international frustration with the war in Gaza has reached new heights.

The Israeli leader has come under ever-sharper criticism from allies like the United States as the civilian death toll climbs in Gaza, and the Israeli military’s killing there this week of seven aid workers has heightened global anger. President Biden spoke with Mr. Netanyahu on Thursday, telling him that “the strikes on humanitarian workers and the overall humanitarian situation are unacceptable.”

At home, Mr. Netanyahu has been confronted with protests and divisions within his governing coalition.

A call Wednesday night for early elections from a former general who is a key member of Mr. Netanyahu’s war cabinet heaped more pressure on the prime minister. Benny Gantz, a popular political rival to Mr. Netanyahu, said that elections should be held in September — around the one-year mark of the war. (New elections in Israel are not legally required until late October 2026.)

“This agreed-upon date for elections will leave us time to continue the security effort, and it will allow Israeli citizens to know that we will soon need to renew the trust between us,” he told a news conference. “It will prevent the rupture among the people.”

Mr. Gantz’s remarks — which featured prominently on Israeli news websites on Thursday — underscored how government unity in the aftermath of the Oct. 7 attack on Israel is showing signs of strain nearly six months into the war.

A departure by Mr. Gantz’s party would not topple Mr. Netanyahu’s far-right coalition on its own, which holds 64 seats in the 120-member Parliament. But it would dismantle the emergency wartime unity government formed after the Hamas-led attack on Oct. 7, potentially creating even more momentum in favor of a push for elections.

Mr. Gantz’s words also echoed the calls of thousands of anti-government protesters who filled the streets outside the Israeli Parliament in Jerusalem this week in a four-day demonstration to demand early elections and Mr. Netanyahu’s ouster.

At the same time, Mr. Netanyahu is facing sharp criticism from his far-right coalition partners , Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, over any indication that he is hesitating in the war against Hamas or in the expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.

The pressure comes as the Biden administration’s frustration with Mr. Netanyahu appears to be coming to a head. The 30-minute call between Mr. Netanyahu and Mr. Biden on Thursday came a day after Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III had a tense call with his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant.

Mr. Austin upbraided Mr. Gallant over Israel’s deadly attack on the aid workers, according to the Pentagon’s account of the call , expressing “outrage” in remarks that demonstrated a significant change in tone from the American secretary’s previous calls with the Israeli defense minister.

Despite the tough language, there was no indication that Mr. Austin had threatened to halt the flow of American munitions to Israel or place conditions on their transfer, as many congressional Democrats are now urging.

Adam Rasgon , Aaron Boxerman , Johnatan Reiss , Peter Baker and Eric Schmitt contributed reporting.

— Cassandra Vinograd reporting from Jerusalem

World Central Kitchen demands an independent investigation into Israel’s deadly strike.

World Central Kitchen on Thursday called for an independent investigation into the killing by Israeli forces of seven of its staff members this week as they worked to deliver aid in Gaza.

Governments around the world have condemned the killing of the workers . They included a man from Gaza and citizens of Australia, Britain and Poland, as well as a dual citizen of Canada and the United States.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel has said that Israel “deeply regrets” the strikes, in which the military fired upon three vehicles carrying the aid workers on a coastal road in Gaza on Monday night. He said that Israel would make sure it did not happen again.

Israel’s military chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, said on Tuesday that the attack followed a misidentification, and that the Israeli military had started an investigation. But World Central Kitchen, the disaster relief organization founded by the Spanish chef José Andrés, issued a statement Thursday saying that was not enough.

“We have asked the governments of Australia, Canada, the United States of America, Poland and the United Kingdom to join us in demanding an independent, third-party investigation into these attacks, including whether they were carried out intentionally or otherwise violated international law,” the group said .

Other Israeli actions in Gaza have prompted similar calls. In one example, António Guterres, the U.N. secretary general, said in February that there needed to be an independent investigation of an incident in which dozens of people died while trying to collect aid, after Israeli forces opened fire and there was a stampede. To date, no such investigation has begun.

World Central Kitchen also called on Israel to preserve any documentation related to the strikes, and pushed back on Mr. Netanyahu’s assertion that the mistake was something that “happens in war.”

“This was a military attack that involved multiple strikes and targeted three W.C.K. vehicles,” the statement said. “All three vehicles were carrying civilians; they were marked as W.C.K. vehicles; and their movements were in full compliance with Israeli authorities.”

— Matthew Mpoke Bigg

Israel’s military cancels leave for combat units and jams GPS signals.

Israel’s military said on Thursday that it was canceling leave for combat units, calling up more reservists and blocking GPS signals.

The Israeli military did not explicitly cite the reason behind the moves. Israeli newspapers said they came amid fears of an increased threat from Iran , a prospect Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu alluded to in remarks to his Security Cabinet on Thursday night.

“For years, Iran has been acting against us both directly and via its proxies; therefore, Israel is acting against Iran and its proxies, defensively and offensively,” he said, without directly referring to the military’s moves. “We will know how to defend ourselves, and we will act according to the simple principle of whoever harms us or plans to harm us, we will harm them.”

President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran has vowed to punish Israel for killing top Iranian commanders this week in an airstrike in Syria. The attack was one of the deadliest in a decades-long shadow war between the two enemies, and American officials have voiced concerns that it could prompt retaliatory strikes against Israel or its ally, the United States.

The Israeli military said on Wednesday night that it had decided to draft reserve soldiers for its aerial defense unit. It did not provide further details.

An announcement about pausing leave for all combat units came in another brief statement, issued on Thursday morning. The military said the decision — which it described as temporary — was taken given “the latest situational assessment,” adding that Israel is “at war and the deployment of forces is under continuous assessment.”

A military spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said later on Thursday that Israel also had been disrupting GPS signals over the past day to intercept any threats. He did not attribute those threats to Iran or any group or country in particular.

“During the war, we dealt with a large number of threats launched toward Israel — missiles, UAVs and cruise missiles,” he told a news briefing, referring to unmanned aerial vehicles, like drones, and adding that “most of them were manufactured in Iran.”

The moves come as Israel’s military is under strain from months of fighting against Hamas in Gaza. Reservists have been called to serve longer or additional tours of duty, and a fierce national debate over whether ultra-Orthodox Jews should be required to join the army has been reignited.

Mr. Netanyahu has vowed to press on in Gaza with a ground invasion of the southern city of Rafah, where more than a million Palestinians have sought refuge. His promise to invade Rafah comes despite mounting calls for a cease-fire and international criticism over Israel’s conduct in the war.

U.S. officials have expressed alarm over the scale of civilian deaths in Gaza and warned that Israel’s plans to invade Rafah could lead to catastrophe. Israel’s deadly strikes on a convoy of aid workers this week amplified those concerns, prompting sharp critiques from President Biden and Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III.

Johnatan Reiss contributed reporting.

— Cassandra Vinograd Reporting from Jerusalem

More than 600 lawyers and retired judges call on the U.K. government to end arms sales to Israel.

The British government is coming under escalating pressure to suspend arms sales to Israel after the strike on a convoy in Gaza that killed seven aid workers , including three Britons. More than 600 lawyers and retired judges sent a letter to the government, arguing that the sales violated international law.

Citing the risk of famine among Palestinians, a potential Israeli military assault on the city of Rafah and a finding of the U.N.’s top court that there was a “plausible risk” of genocide in Gaza, the lawyers urged Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to “suspend the provision of weapons and weapons systems” to Israel.

“Serious action,” the 17-page letter sent on Wednesday concluded, “is moreover needed to avoid U.K. complicity in grave breaches of international law, including potential violations of the Genocide Convention.”

Among the signatories are Brenda Hale, a former president of Britain’s Supreme Court; Jonathan Sumption and Nicholas Wilson, former justices on the court; and dozens of the country’s most prominent lawyers.

Mr. Sunak has hardened his criticism of Israel’s conduct of the war in recent weeks, while stopping short of punitive measures. On Tuesday, he told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel that the strike on the World Central Kitchen convoy, in which the three Britons were killed, was “appalling.”

But Mr. Sunak has not signaled he is considering a halt to arms sales. Speaking to The Sun, a London tabloid, on Wednesday, he said, “We’ve always had a very careful export licensing regime that we adhere to. There are a set of rules, regulations and procedures that we’ll always follow.”

Britain’s arms trade with Israel is nowhere near that of the United States. Grant Shapps, the defense secretary, told Parliament that British exports to Israel totaled 42 million pounds ($53 million) in 2022, a figure he described as “relatively small.” It sells parts for military aircraft, assault rifles and explosive devices. Under a 10-year agreement reached in 2016, the United States provides $3.8 billion in annual military aid to Israel.

But the strike on the aid convoy has provoked fury across Britain, dominating the front pages of newspapers and TV news broadcasts. The family of one of the three British victims, John Chapman, said in a statement, “He died trying to help people and was subject to an inhumane act.”

Britain summoned Israel’s ambassador to lodge a formal objection and demanded an investigation into the strike, which Mr. Netanyahu characterized as a tragic accident in the fog of war.

That explanation is unlikely to quiet the growing chorus of condemnation. Several members of Parliament from Mr. Sunak’s Conservative Party have also demanded that arms sales be halted, as has Peter Ricketts, who was national security adviser to David Cameron, the current foreign secretary, when he was prime minister.

“Sometimes in conflict you get a moment where there is such global outrage that it crystallizes a sense that things can’t go on like this,” Mr. Ricketts said to the BBC on Wednesday. “I hope that this awful incident will serve that purpose.”

Mr. Cameron, who was in Brussels on Thursday for a second day of meetings of NATO foreign ministers, said Israel needed not only to allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza, but also to make sure that the convoys were able to transport it throughout the enclave without further lethal incidents.

“Britain will be watching very closely to make sure that that happens,” Mr. Cameron said to reporters on Wednesday.

The Labour Party, which holds a double-digit lead over the Conservatives in opinion polls, said Britain should suspend arms sales if Israel is found to have violated international law. “I must say that I do have very serious concerns,” David Lammy, the party’s shadow foreign secretary, told reporters.

— Mark Landler reporting from London

Netanyahu Faces Pressure at Home and Abroad, From Foes and Friends

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel is facing challenges on multiple fronts, with his domestic support appearing to erode at a time when international fury and frustration over the war in Gaza have reached new heights.

The Israeli leader has come under sharper criticism from allies like the United States as the civilian death toll climbs in Gaza, and the Israeli military’s killing there this week of seven aid workers has heightened global anger.

On Thursday, President Biden and Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken both suggested that American support for Israel was not unconditional in remarks that laid bare the growing divisions between Washington and Jerusalem.

In a phone call with Mr. Netanyahu, Mr. Biden called the strikes on relief workers and the broader humanitarian crisis in Gaza “unacceptable,” according to a White House statement.

“He made clear the need for Israel to announce and implement a series of specific, concrete and measurable steps to address civilian harm, humanitarian suffering and the safety of aid workers,” the White House statement said. “He made clear that U.S. policy with respect to Gaza will be determined by our assessment of Israel’s immediate action on these steps.”

Speaking to reporters at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Mr. Blinken said, “With regard to our policy in Gaza, look, I’ll just say this: If we don’t see the changes that we need to see, there’ll be changes in our own policy.”

Within hours of the phone call, a spokeswoman for the U.S. National Security Council had released a statement announcing that, at Mr. Biden’s request, Israel would allow more aid crossings in Gaza. The statement said Israel had agreed to use the Ashdod port to direct aid into Gaza, to open the Erez crossing into northern Gaza for the first time since the Hamas terrorist attack on Oct. 7 and to significantly increase deliveries from Jordan.

At home, Mr. Netanyahu, who has outlasted many predictions of his political demise, has been confronted with protests, divisions within his government and falling approval ratings in opinion polls.

On Wednesday night, Benny Gantz, a former general who is a key member of Mr. Netanyahu’s war cabinet, heaped more pressure on the prime minister by calling for early elections . A popular political rival to Mr. Netanyahu, Mr. Gantz said that elections should be held in September — just before the one-year mark of the war. (New elections in Israel are not legally required until late October 2026.)

Elections in September “will leave us time to continue the security effort, and it will allow Israeli citizens to know that we will soon need to renew the trust between us,” he said at a news conference. “It will prevent the rupture among the people.”

Mr. Gantz’s remarks, which Israeli news websites featured prominently on Thursday, underscored how government unity since the Oct. 7 attack on Israel was showing signs of strain nearly six months into the war. An opposition leader, Mr. Gantz crossed parliamentary lines after the attack to join the Netanyahu war cabinet as an emergency measure.

Mr. Gantz did not suggest he would quit the war cabinet, and if he were to, that alone would not topple the government; his centrist party is not part of Mr. Netanyahu’s far-right governing coalition, which holds 64 seats in the 120-member Parliament. But it would dismantle the emergency wartime leadership team formed after Oct. 7, along with the air of solidarity it created, potentially creating more momentum for new elections.

Mr. Gantz’s words echoed the calls of thousands of anti-government protesters who filled the streets outside the Israeli Parliament in Jerusalem this week in a four-day demonstration to demand early elections and Mr. Netanyahu’s ouster.

At the same time, Mr. Netanyahu has faced sharp criticism from his far-right coalition partners , Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, over any indication that he is hesitating in the war against Hamas or in the expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. Unlike Mr. Gantz, they have the power to make the government fall and to force elections by leaving the coalition.

The pressure comes as Biden administration officials are expressing more open frustration with Mr. Netanyahu’s prosecution of the war and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

In a tense phone call on Wednesday, the U.S. secretary of defense, Lloyd J. Austin III, criticized his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant, over the deadly attack on the aid workers, including a dual U.S.-Canadian citizen. According to a Pentagon account of the call, Mr. Austin expressed “outrage” at the attack — a significant change in tone from their previous calls.

Despite the tough language, the Biden administration did not directly threaten to halt the flow of American munitions to Israel or place conditions on their transfer, as many congressional Democrats are now urging.

“I’m not going to preview any potential policy decisions coming forward,” John F. Kirby, a White House spokesman, told reporters at a news conference on Thursday. “What we want to see are some real changes on the Israeli side,” he said, including a significant increase in humanitarian aid, additional border crossings into Gaza and a reduction in violence against civilians and aid workers.

Israel has called the strike a tragic mistake that resulted from a “misidentification” but has not offered further details.

Another Israeli ally, Britain, is also coming under more pressure to curtail its support for Israel; three of the seven World Central Kitchen workers who were killed were Britons. On Wednesday, more than 600 lawyers and retired judges sent a letter to the British government urging it to suspend weapon sales to Israel, arguing that they violated international law.

The letter cited the risk of famine in Gaza, a planned Israeli military assault on the crowded city of Rafah in southern Gaza and a finding by the U.N.’s top court that there was a “plausible risk” of genocide in Gaza.

Among the signatories were Brenda Hale, a former president of Britain’s Supreme Court; Jonathan Sumption and Nicholas Wilson, former justices on the court; and dozens of the country’s most prominent lawyers.

The international pressure to suspend military sales to Israel came as the Israeli military said that it was canceling leave for combat units and blocking GPS signals. The Israeli military did not explicitly cite the reason behind the moves, but Israeli newspapers noted that it came amid fears of an increased threat from Iran .

Israeli officials have also suggested that increased cross-border fighting between their forces and Hezbollah, the Lebanese militia backed by Iran, could prompt a much larger military response by Israel than it has mounted so far.

Iranian leaders have vowed to punish Israel for killing top Iranian commanders this week in an airstrike in Syria. The attack was one of the deadliest in a decades-long shadow war between the two enemies, and American officials have voiced concerns that it could prompt retaliatory strikes against Israel or the United States.

Israel said on Wednesday night that it had decided to mobilize reserve soldiers for its Aerial Defense unit. On Thursday, it said it was pausing leave for all combat units given “the latest situational assessment.”

Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, a military spokesman, said Israel had also been disrupting GPS signals to intercept any threats.

“During the war, we dealt with a large number of threats launched toward Israel” including missiles and drones, he said at a news briefing on Thursday, adding that “most of them were manufactured in Iran.”

As outrage continues to boil over the killing of the aid workers this week, their employer, World Central Kitchen, called for an independent investigation into the attack and asked Australia, Britain, Canada, the United States and Poland, whose citizens were among the victims, to join it in demanding an outside inquiry.

World Central Kitchen also called on Israel to preserve documentation related to the strikes and pushed back on Mr. Netanyahu’s assertion that strikes, while “tragic” and unintentional, were something that “happens in war.”

Reporting was contributed by Lara Jakes , Adam Rasgon , Johnatan Reiss , Eric Schmitt , Mark Landler , Katie Rogers and Michael Levenson .

— Cassandra Vinograd ,  Victoria Kim and Matthew Mpoke Bigg

String of Israeli Errors Led to Fatal Attack on Aid Convoy, Military Says

A series of Israeli failures, including a breakdown in communication and violations of the military’s own rules of engagement, led to the deadly airstrikes that killed seven humanitarian aid workers in Gaza this week, senior Israeli military officials said on Friday.

The military officials said that the officers who ordered the strikes on the aid convoy had violated the army’s protocols, in part by opening fire on the basis of insufficient and erroneous evidence that a passenger in one of the cars was armed.

The attack prompted a wave of international outrage and renewed questions about whether Israeli forces on the ground in Gaza properly vet targets before unleashing deadly force. Israel has come under increasing pressure over the high civilian death toll in its six-month war in Gaza . The strikes on the aid workers prompted President Biden for the first time to say he would leverage U.S. aid to influence the conduct of the war against Hamas.

On Friday, the Israeli military announced that two officers — a reserve colonel and a major — would be dismissed from their positions. Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, the Israeli military’s chief of staff, had also decided to formally reprimand the head of Israel’s southern command as well as two other senior officers, the military said in a statement .

The military said the “grave mistake” had stemmed from “a serious failure due to a mistaken identification, errors in decision-making and an attack contrary to the Standard Operating Procedures.”

“It’s a tragedy,” Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, the Israeli military’s chief spokesman, told reporters in a briefing on Thursday night. “It’s a serious event that we’re responsible for, and it shouldn’t have happened.”

World Central Kitchen, the relief group whose aid workers were killed, called the Israeli military’s statements “cold comfort” and reiterated its call for an independent inquiry. The aid organization’s operations — which have distributed millions of meals to Gazans — remained suspended, the group said.

“It’s not enough to simply try to avoid further humanitarian deaths, which have now approached close to 200,” the group’s founder, José Andrés, said in a statement . “All civilians need to be protected, and all innocent people in Gaza need to be fed and safe. And all hostages must be released.”

Critics have said that the Israeli military has shown a disregard for Palestinian civilians in its campaign to root out Hamas, the militant group whose attack on Oct. 7 killed 1,200 people in Israel, mostly civilians, according to Israeli officials.

The army said its findings on Monday’s strikes would be sent to military prosecutors to assess whether anyone should face criminal charges. The army is also assessing whether the two officers stripped of their posts should be moved to other roles or be fired entirely.

Though the Israeli military has assigned a special committee to investigate allegations of misconduct during several conflicts over the past decade, rights campaigners have said the military justice system has historically been slow to charge, let alone convict, soldiers accused of crimes against Palestinians.

For Abdu Rahman Mohammad, an accountant from Khan Younis who has lost eight cousins in the war, the Israeli military’s apology for the aid workers’ deaths felt like “a slap in the face” that further demonstrated that Palestinian lives were of lesser value.

According to the military, Israeli forces began striking the World Central Kitchen convoy at 10:09 p.m. on Monday, as the vehicles made their way along Gaza’s coast. The attack killed six foreign nationals and a Palestinian, all of whom had handled the food aid that had arrived in Gaza by sea.

Like many aid groups, the World Central Kitchen had sought to ensure its workers’ safety in Gaza, where, according to local health officials, Israel’s campaign against Hamas has killed more than 32,000 people. The workers had coordinated their mission in advance with the Israeli military, and the roofs of the vehicles had been marked with the World Central Kitchen’s logo.

Despite those safeguards, a series of critical errors led the troops to open fire on the convoy, according to the results of the military’s preliminary inquiry. Drone footage, the inquiry found, had not captured the organization’s logo in the dark; some officers did not review documentation showing that the convoy included civilian cars; and a drone operator had identified incorrectly an aid worker, who was most likely carrying a bag, as a member of an armed Palestinian group with a gun.

The seven aid workers had arrived in northern Gaza earlier on Monday to help deliver more than 100 tons of food aid, according to World Central Kitchen. Their trucks left around 9 p.m. and headed south for the group’s warehouse, according to the Israeli military.

Along the coastal road, the trucks met with cars who joined their convoy, according to the military. Shortly after, a gunman appeared to fire a single round from the roof of one of the trucks, according to Maj. Gen. Yoav Har-Even, a reserve officer who oversees the military’s investigations into potential cases of wartime misconduct.

The drone operator and his commanding officers were unaware that the cars were part of the approved humanitarian convoy and wrongly assumed they were carrying armed Palestinians, the Israeli officials said.

Asked why the soldiers were out of the loop, General Har-Even said that certain officers had not seen the coordination documentation. “No excuses,” Gen. Har-Even said, describing the communication failure.

After the convoy arrived at the warehouse, Israeli drone footage captured what officials said were believed to be more gunmen at the scene. The Israeli military screened videos for reporters at the briefing on Thursday. The New York Times could not independently verify the military’s video.

The officers were convinced that the scene they had witnessed resembled what they said were previous attempts by Hamas militants to seize humanitarian aid in Gaza, the officials said. Basem Naim, a Hamas spokesman, denied that Hamas stole aid, calling the accusation “Israeli propaganda.”

The cars then left the warehouse — three cars went south and one went north, the military officials said. Before they left, a drone operator spotted what he believed — wrongly, General Har-Even said — was a figure bearing a weapon entering one of the three southbound cars.

Within four minutes, at least one Israeli drone struck each of the three vehicles in the convoy as they traveled south one behind the other, killing all seven passengers, the Israeli officials said. Israeli officers fired on the first car without “enough to say this is a legitimate target,” said Benny Gal, one of the Israeli generals who briefed reporters.

Some aid workers in the first vehicle struck fled to the next vehicle for protection, the officials said. That vehicle was hit, too.

The soldiers’ decision to fire on the second and third car, assuming wrongly that they were also harboring militants, failed to meet the Israeli military’s open-fire protocols, the officials said. The Israeli military’s rules of engagement are classified, making it difficult to know what the standard for using deadly force was on Monday night. But General Har-Even indicated the attack categorically broke them .

“This was against the rules of engagement,” he said.

The Israeli military also failed to convey key information about the aid workers’ plans to lower-ranking soldiers operating in the area, General Har-Even said.

Aid agencies had begged the Israeli authorities for months to open a direct line between them and Israeli military forces to avoid disastrous misfires, Jamie McGoldrick, a senior U.N. relief official, said. But those pleas had mostly fallen on deaf ears, he said, contributing to “a lot of near misses.”

Asked whether the military was concerned that more cases of indiscriminate fire had occurred over months of intensive Israeli fire across the Gaza Strip, Admiral Hagari, its spokesman, didn’t provide a substantive answer.

Referring to the strikes on the aid convoy, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel “deeply regrets the tragic incident.”

During a phone call with Mr. Netanyahu on Thursday, the White House said, Mr. Biden described the attack on the aid convoy and the overall humanitarian situation in Gaza as “unacceptable.”

Mr. Biden threatened to condition future support for Israel on how it addresses his concerns about civilian casualties and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, prompting Israel to say it would open up more routes for aid into the besieged enclave.

Abu Bakr Bashir contributed reporting from London and Patrick Kingsley from Jerusalem.

— Aaron Boxerman and Adam Rasgon Reporting from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem

In a televised show of unity and defiance, Iran and its proxy militias denounce Israel and the U.S.

The leaders of Iran and the militia groups it backs around the Middle East made an unusual televised show of unity and defiance on Wednesday, railing against Israel and the United States, as war rages in the Gaza Strip.

On a joint broadcast, the leaders of a group that calls itself the Axis of Resistance, speaking from different locations, delivered fiery speeches ahead of the upcoming Quds Day, a show of solidarity with Palestinians held each year on the last Friday of Ramadan.

The war between Israel and Hamas gave this year’s iteration a sharper edge than usual. The broadcast also came just days after Israel struck an Iranian embassy compound in Damascus, Syria, killing three generals of Iran’s Quds Force and four other Iranian officers in one of the deadliest attacks in the yearslong shadow war between Israel and Iran.

President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran said that Israel would be punished and made to regret its attack in Damascus. He focused most of his speech on what he called Israel’s demise in world public opinion and said any normalization of ties with the Jewish state — referring to Saudi Arabia — would be akin to “betting on a dead horse.”

Last April, a similar event took place to commemorate Quds Day, with a broader list of speakers representing political and military leaders from across the Arab world and Iran. This year’s event, however, was tightly focused on militant groups supported by Iran that have been fighting Israel on multiple fronts since Hamas’s Oct. 7 assault on Israel, which they refer to as Al Aqsa Flood.

The speakers, in addition to Mr. Raisi, included Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas; Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of the Lebanese group Hezbollah; Ziad al-Nakhaleh, the leader of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, which, like Hamas, is active in Gaza; Abdul-Malik al-Houthi, the leader of the Houthi movement, which controls a large part of Yemen; and Hadi al-Ameri, the leader of Hashd al-Shaabi, an Iraqi Shiite militia.

“The Al Aqsa Flood united the Muslim people and this collective unity has manifested with the help of Iran on battlefields in Lebanon, Palestine and Iraq,” Mr. Haniyeh said. He said that the United States had aided crimes committed by Israel by supporting it financially, providing it with sophisticated weaponry and vetoing cease-fire resolutions at the United Nations Security Council.

Since Oct. 7, Hezbollah has launched daily attacks against Israel after a long lull in fighting, raising fears of a wider regional war, and the Houthis for the first time have launched drones and missiles against Israel and vessels in the Red Sea, disrupting international shipping.

Iran has tried to calibrate its response, applying pressure on Israel while avoiding all-out war. Earlier this year, it made an effort to rein in Iraqi militias , including Hashd al-Shaabi, that had been firing on U.S. bases.

Mr. Nasrallah, the Hezbollah leader, urged his followers not to “overlook the achievements of the resistance” in six months of battle with Israel.

Mr. al-Ameri focused most of his speech on the resolve of militant groups to force the American military to withdraw from Iraq saying, “we are steadfast and there is no turning back.”

Separate from that broadcast event, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, held a large meeting on Wednesday with government, military and religious leaders of the country, and pledged that Israel would receive “a slap” for killing Iranian officers in Syria. The crowd, fists in the air, chanted back, “Death to Israel.”

— Farnaz Fassihi and Hwaida Saad

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Israel pulls some troops from southern Gaza, but clearing Hamas from Rafah still a goal

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Israel’s military announced Sunday it had withdrawn its forces from the southern Gaza city of Khan Yunis, wrapping up a key phase in its ground offensive against the Hamas militant group and bringing its troop presence in the territory to one of the lowest levels since the six-month war began.

Military officials, speaking on condition of anonymity under army policy, said a “significant force” remained in Gaza and would preserve the army’s “freedom of action” to continue targeted operations across the territory, including Khan Yunis, a Hamas stronghold that has been Israel’s main focus for several months.

Still, the withdrawal was a significant milestone as Israel and Hamas marked six months of fighting . The Israeli officials said the 98th paratroopers division would recuperate and prepare for future operations. Israel previously claimed to have dismantled Hamas forces in Khan Yunis, the hometown of the group’s leader, Yehya Sinwar.

AP video in Khan Yunis on Sunday showed some people returning to a landscape marked by shattered multistory buildings and climbing over debris to explore crumbled, dusty remains.

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Israel has vowed a ground offensive on the southernmost Gaza city of Rafah, considered Hamas’ last stronghold, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday told his Cabinet that victory means “elimination of Hamas in the entire Gaza Strip, including Rafah.”

But Rafah shelters some 1.4 million people — more than half of Gaza’s population. The prospect of an offensive has raised global alarm, including from Israel’s top ally, the U.S., which has demanded to see a credible plan to protect civilians. Allowing people to return to nearby Khan Yunis could relieve some pressure on Rafah.

White House national security spokesman John Kirby told ABC the U.S. believes that the partial Israeli withdrawal “is really just about rest and refit for these troops that have been on the ground for four months and not necessarily, that we can tell, indicative of some coming new operation for these troops.”

Israel’s military quietly drew down troops in devastated northern Gaza earlier in the war. But it has continued to carry out airstrikes and raids in areas where it says Hamas has resurfaced, including Gaza’s largest hospital, Shifa, leaving what the head of the World Health Organization called “an empty shell.”

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The six-month mark has been met with growing frustration in Israel, where anti-government protests have swelled and anger is mounting over what some see as government inaction to help free about 130 remaining hostages, about a quarter of whom Israel says are dead . Hamas-led militants took about 250 captives when they crossed from Gaza into Israel on Oct. 7 and killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians.

Negotiations in pursuit of a cease-fire in exchange for the hostages’ release were expected to resume in Cairo on Sunday. An Israeli delegation led by the head of the Mossad intelligence agency was due to depart for Cairo, according to an Israeli official who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter with the media.

“Israel is prepared for a deal; Israel is not prepared to surrender,” Netanyahu said, and asserted that international pressure on Israel “is only causing Hamas to harden its positions.”

Pressure rose for action now.

“This doesn’t seem a war against terror. This doesn’t seem anymore a war about defending Israel. This really, at this point, seems it’s a war against humanity itself,” chef Jose Andres told ABC, days after an Israeli airstrike killed seven of his World Central Kitchen colleagues in Gaza. Aid deliveries on a crucial new sea route to the territory were suspended.

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“Humanity has been all but abandoned” in Gaza, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said in a statement marking six months of war.

The United Nations and partners now warn of “imminent famine” for more than 1 million people in Gaza as humanitarian workers urge Israel to loosen restrictions on the delivery of aid overland, the only way to meet soaring needs as some Palestinians forage for weeds to eat.

Mothers who have given birth in Gaza since the war began are especially vulnerable.

The Health Ministry in Gaza said the bodies of 38 people killed in Israel’s bombardment had been brought to the territory’s remaining functional hospitals in the last 24 hours. It said 33,175 have been killed since the war began. It doesn’t differentiate between civilians and combatants but says two-thirds of the dead are children and women.

Israel’s military continued to suffer losses, including in Khan Yunis, where the military said four soldiers were killed. More than 600 Israeli soldiers have been killed since Oct. 7, including 260 in the Gaza ground operation, according to Israel’s government.

Israel vows to fight Hamas to Gaza’s southern border. That’s fueling tension with Egypt

Israel and Egypt are engaged in an increasingly public spat over a narrow strip of land between Egypt and Gaza.

Jan. 25, 2024

Concerns about a wider regional conflict continued as a top Iranian military advisor warned Israel that none of its embassies was safe following last week’s strike in Damascus — blamed on Israel — that killed two elite Iranian generals and flattened an Iranian consular building.

“None of the embassies of the [Israeli] regime are safe anymore,” Gen. Rahim Safavi, a military advisor to Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was quoted as saying by the semiofficial Tasnim agency.

Israel has not directly acknowledged its involvement. Netanyahu said Israel was prepared for any response. “Whoever harms us or plans to harm us, we will harm them,” he said.

Jeffery and Goldenberg write for the Associated Press. Goldenberg reported from Tel Aviv.

More to Read

Israeli troops withdraw from Shifa Hospital, Gaza’s largest, after 2-week raid

April 1, 2024

Israel and Hamas dig in as international pressure builds for a cease-fire in Gaza

March 26, 2024

Israeli assault on Rafah could be ‘delayed somewhat’ by a cease-fire deal, Netanyahu says

Feb. 25, 2024

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Devastation in Gaza as Israel wages war on Hamas

By Chris Lau, Catherine Nicholls, Antoinette Radford and Maureen Chowdhury , CNN

Israeli military says it's "far from stopping" operations in Gaza as troops withdraw from Khan Younis

From Tamar Michaelis

The Israel Defense Forces is "far from stopping" military operations in the Gaza Strip, its chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, said at a news conference Sunday.

"We will not leave any Hamas brigades active, in any part of the Gaza Strip. We have plans and will act when we decide," he said, adding that the military's goals in Gaza have not been fully achieved, including the return of all hostages, the return of displaced residents to the north, and the dismantling of Hamas throughout the enclave.

In response to a question about the military's withdrawal of ground forces from Khan Younis in southern Gaza, Halevi claimed Hamas' military wing had been diminished to operating as "small terrorist cells."

He reiterated that the IDF has not left the Gaza Strip and that there are "many troops at this very hour" in the strip.

The country's defense minister made similar remarks earlier Sunday, saying the withdrawing troops will regroup and then  prepare for new missions , including in  Rafah .

Israeli military says it's preparing to shift from defense to offense on the border with Lebanon

From CNN's Ben Wedeman and Mia Alberti in Beirut

The Israeli military said Sunday it is "preparing to move from defence to attack" regarding operations on the northern border with Lebanon.

The Israel Defense Forces and Lebanese militant group Hezbollah have been exchanging increased fire since the day after Hamas launched the October 7 attacks in Israel, with casualties reported on both sides. It is one of multiple ongoing conflicts between Israel and Iranian proxy groups .

"During the last days, another phase of the Northern Command’s preparations for the war was completed, which revolved around raising the capabilities of emergency operational depots for the purpose of large-scale recruitment of IDF forces when necessary ... and their arrival to the front line within a short period with all the necessary equipment for combat," the IDF said in a statement.

The IDF said commanders of regular and reserve units are now ready to be deployed "within just a few hours."

The statement was released in both English and Arabic, with the statement in Arabic using slightly different language. The English-language version does not carry the phrase "preparing to move from defence to attack" and instead highlights the Israeli military's "readiness for the transition from defense to offense."

Doctors operate on children from the floor of northern Gaza hospital, while others starve in "dire" conditions

From journalist Abdel Qadder Al-Sabbah in Gaza and CNN’s Kareem Khadder and Zeena Saifi in Jerusalem

A group of American doctors who spent over a week working in hospitals in northern Gaza describe "miserable," "catastrophic" and "dire" conditions to CNN, as more people die of starvation in the enclave. 

The doctors volunteered through a World Heath Organization-coordinated mission to the north of Gaza — where little to no aid is reaching hospitals, and spent most of their time at the Kamal Adwan Hospital . 

"The situation here is dire … they’re running on solar power, there’s no fuel to run the electricity in the hospital … patients are lying on the floors in their blood because there’s no beds available,” Dr. Farhan Abdelaziz, an emergency medicine physician said. "The humanitarian crisis here is beyond what words can really convey."

Video filmed by a CNN stringer in Kamal Adwan Hospital shows the doctors operating on screaming patients on the floor, most of whom are children. Abdelaziz is seen trying to calm down a nine-year-old girl crying out in pain, caressing her hand, telling her to pray to God.

Another doctor said the hospital received "mass casualties" every day — ranging from 10 to 20 people showing up all at once.

"This morning we woke up and found out that four patients died in the ICU. One of them was about 10 years old, and the mom refused to leave the child’s bedside, refused to believe that the child was dead, refused to let the staff cover her up ... She just couldn’t believe her child was dead,” Dr. Samer Attar, an orthopedic surgeon, told CNN. The child died of malnutrition and dehydration, he said.

At least 30 Palestinians have died of malnutrition in Gaza, including over 20 children, according to the enclave's Ministry of Health. 

"These people, they just need help. They just want this to stop. … Nobody discusses politics here. They just talk about food and water and shelter, and they just want the war the end," Attar said.

Israeli troops leaving Gaza will prepare for "follow-up missions," including in Rafah, defense minister says

From Tamar Michaelis in Jerusalem and Lauren Kent in London

Some Israeli troops are leaving Gaza to prepare for follow-up missions, including in the southernmost Rafah region , Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said Sunday.

"We are reaching a situation where Hamas does not control the Gaza Strip and that it does not function as a military framework that poses a risk to the citizens of the State of Israel," Gallant added, in remarks during a visit to assess the Israel Defense Forces' Southern Command.

Earlier Sunday , the IDF said its 98th division had "concluded its mission" in the southern city of Khan Younis and was leaving the Gaza Strip to "recuperate and prepare for future operations."

The defense minister said Israeli forces had destroyed "enemy targets, warehouses, weapons, underground (infrastructure), headquarters (and) communication rooms" in Khan Younis.

Remember: An Israeli invasion of Rafah has been anticipated with grave concern from the United Nations and international aid organizations, as more than 1 million civilians are packed into the Gazan city with nowhere left to run .

World Central Kitchen head criticizes Israeli inquiry into "unforgivable" strikes that killed aid workers

From CNN’s Xiaofei Xu in Paris

The Israeli strikes that killed seven World Central Kitchen (WCK) workers in Gaza are “unforgivable,” the organization's founder, José Andrés, said as he criticized the  Israel Defense Forces inquiry  into the killings.

Andrés called for an independent investigation and better evidence from the IDF in an interview with ABC's Martha Raddatz that aired Sunday, adding that Israel cannot properly investigate itself.

What Israel has said: In a report published Friday, the IDF said the strike was a "grave mistake" and that troops thought they were attacking Hamas gunmen when drone strikes targeted three vehicles of the WCK late Monday night.

More from Andrés: The aid group founder doubts Israel's claim that it failed to identify the vehicles because it was dark out. Andrés said WCK vehicles are white with a colorful logo painted above, and that Israel’s high-tech drones should have no issue identifying them.

The IDF had said that because the strikes happened at night, the surveillance drones could not see the WCK logo on the vehicles, and that it is considering distributing thermal stickers for aid vehicles to prevent this happening again.

“This doesn’t seem (like) a war against terror. This doesn’t seem anymore a war about defending Israel. This, really at this point, seems (like) a war against humanity itself,” Andrés said.

He also urged the US to put out concrete measures to ensure Israel avoids killing civilians and aid workers — instead of just giving warnings. “There should already be consequences,” he said, commenting on the latest  White House warning  for Israel to do better at protecting civilians.

Israeli troops withdraw from Khan Younis, 6 months into the conflict. Catch up on the latest

From CNN staff

The Israeli military said Sunday it is withdrawing its troops from the southern city of Khan Younis.

They are now stationed on the border of Gaza and Israel. The withdrawal — which comes on the six-month anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attacks — could have an impact on the ceasefire talks scheduled in Cairo on Sunday , with both an Israeli and a Hamas delegation due to attend.

It’s unclear what the movement means for the Israeli military’s planned operation in Rafah, but the withdrawal of troops from Khan Younis doesn’t detract from the size of Israel’s forces that remain inside Gaza. There are still significant forces operating in the north of the enclave. A White House official said the withdrawal is primarily so troops can “rest and refit,” and not necessarily a signal of any future operation.

Israeli public broadcaster and CNN affiliate Channel 11 reported that the remaining forces would be located along the so-called Netzarim Corridor , which splits the Gaza Strip in two.

Here are the latest developments:

• Death toll in Gaza: The death toll in the Gaza Strip since October 7 has risen to at least 33,175, the Ministry of Health in the enclave reported Sunday. The ministry added that 75,886 people have been injured in that timeframe. CNN cannot independently verify these numbers.
• Aid plans: Initial plans for humanitarian goods to enter Gaza on Sunday via the Erez crossing for the first time since October 7 have been delayed , an Israeli official tells CNN. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom has deployed a Navy ship to boost aid into Gaza , as it joins international efforts to set up a new maritime corridor from Cyprus, British Foreign Secretary David Cameron said in a statement Saturday.
• Israel targeting Hezbollah: The Israel Defense Forces said it struck a Hezbollah military compound as well as a command center in southern Lebanon on Sunday. The military said in a statement that it is "preparing to move from defence to attack" regarding operations on its northern border, where it has engaged in intensified skirmishes with Hezbollah, one of Iran's proxies, since the outbreak of war in Gaza.
• Fallout from Iranian embassy strike: Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said Sunday that the US is prepared to “respond swiftly if necessary” against any attacks by Iran or its proxies. The US  is on high alert and actively preparing  for a “significant” attack that could come as soon as this week by Iran targeting Israeli or American assets in the Middle East, in response to Israel’s strike in Damascus that killed top Iranian commanders, a senior administration official told CNN.
• UK support for Israel: The United Kingdom's backing for Israel is "not unconditional," the British foreign secretary said in an op-ed published in the Sunday Times . Cameron said Israel "must abide" by humanitarian laws in Gaza, adding that Hamas is the "barrier to ending" the brutal conflict.
• Treatment of detained Palestinians: A doctor at a field hospital for detained Palestinians at an Israeli army base has described "deplorable conditions" and "routine" amputations due to handcuff injuries , according to an exclusive report from the newspaper  Haaretz .
• Anti-government protests in Israel: Protesters once again took to the streets of Tel Aviv , Caesarea and Haifa on Saturday, demanding the resignation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and early elections.

Plans for aid to move through Erez crossing are delayed, Israeli official tells CNN 

From CNN’s Jeremy Diamond in Jerusalem

Initial plans for humanitarian goods to begin flowing into Gaza on Sunday via the Erez crossing have been delayed, an Israeli official tells CNN.

Officials are still making logistical preparations to ensure the checkpoint can accommodate truckloads of aid.

A CNN team reporting along the border between Israel and northern Gaza heard gunfire and explosions from an area near the crossing Saturday.

A spokesperson for COGAT, the Israeli military agency charged with coordinating humanitarian aid deliveries into Gaza, said it will announce the crossing’s opening "once a date is set."

Some context: On Thursday, Israel approved the reopening of the Erez crossing for the first time since  the October 7 Hamas attacks , a decision that came soon after US President Joe Biden pressed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to do more to allow in aid.

US says Israel's withdrawal from Khan Younis is likely so its troops can "rest and recover"

From CNN's Antoinette Radford

Israel's partial withdrawal from the southern Gaza Strip is likely so its troops can "rest and refit," rather than a move towards a new operation, the White House said Sunday.

But National Security spokesperson John Kirby stressed it was “hard to know exactly what that tells us right now,” on ABC’s "This Week."

Kirby added, “the word is they’re [Israeli troops] getting tired” after four months of fighting in Gaza. 

Israel announced it would withdraw troops from Khan Younis came ahead of an announcement that it would attend ceasefire talks in Cairo.

The World Food Programme has enough food for 1.1 million people in Gaza, Cindy McCain tells CNN

From CNN’s Martin Goillandeau

The Executive Director of the World Food Programme (WFP) Cindy McCain has told CNN the UN agency has amassed food for 1.1 million people for three months outside Gaza.

"We just need to get it in," McCain told CNN’s Jake Tapper. “That's why these crossings are so important, and more crossings are needed."

McCain emphasized the importance of Israel’s decision to temporary open the Erez crossing, saying it was vital for aid operations.

“We as humanitarians must be able to get in with our humanitarian principles and deliver aid in such a way,” the WFP chief added.

On Friday, the Israeli government revealed plans to temporarily open the Erez crossing and Ashdod port to enable the supply of humanitarian assistance into Gaza. Israeli officials told CNN the Erez crossing into northern Gaza was expected to receive the first humanitarian aid shipments into Gaza on Sunday.

“It's much more than just getting food in,” McCain said. “It's about the kind of foods that we get and making sure that we can get certainly foods for adults, but most importantly, those for younger children who really are in desperate need of nutrients right now.

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