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

Everything you need to know about travel to israel and the occupied palestinian territories – including easyjet cancelling flights to tel aviv – in the wake of military action by iran.

T he military action by Iran against Israel on April 13 has stoked fears of a further escalation of tensions in the region. The 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 and increased tensions in the Middle East.

Airlines have cancelled flights to Tel Aviv, including easyJet and Virgin Atlantic; while routes to and over the Middle East are taking longer due to airspace closures.

Here’s what you need to know.

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 in its latest update since the Iran attack: “We recognise this a fast-moving situation that poses significant risks. The situation has potential to deteriorate quickly and without warning. This could disrupt air and road links out of the country. If your reason to remain in Israel and the OPTs is not essential you should consider leaving if it is safe to do so.”

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More general advice that has been in place since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, is: “Before travelling within Israel or the OPTs, check the local measures in place, that roads are open and, where appropriate, that scheduled train and bus services are operating.”

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.

• 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 Foreign Office has advised against all but essential travel to areas of Israel, including 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.

The Foreign Office highlighted that there are continued exchanges of rocket attacks and other incidents across Israel and the OPTs, as well as along Israel’s norther border with Lebanon.

Virgin Atlantic and easyJet have all paused services to Tel Aviv until September and October 2024 respectively. British Airways resumed a limited service to Tel Aviv on 1 April, 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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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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Israel travel advice

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Israel travel alerts

Tel aviv travel update.

Last updated: Wednesday 24 th April 2024 5:06pm (UK Time)

Please check the travel advice for all countries in your itinerary .

Entry requirements

You must check all requirements before heading to the airport.

Please visit  https://corona.health.gov.il/en/  for the latest entry requirements. 

Travel bans

For fully vaccinated travellers.

There are currently no COVID-19 travel restrictions in place.

Exit Statement Form 

All Israeli citizens and residents aged 16 years and older, must show clearance to leave Israel, you will receive the clearance after submitting the exit statement form

Your passport must be valid for the period of your intended stay. You may require longer validity by Embassy consular departments.

The Israeli border control won't stamp your passport. Instead, you'll be given a printed card called an "Electric Gate Pass". You'll need this in order to leave the arrival terminal and continue to collect your baggage. You are advised to keep the card with you at all times.

If you need more information, please contact the  Israeli Embassy in London .

Most UK and EU passport holders don't need a visa to enter Israel if visiting for 90 days or less. If you wish to stay longer than 90 days you'll need to apply for a visa.

If don't hold a UK or EU passport, please  check if you need a visa  before travelling.

For non vaccinated travellers

All Israeli citizens and residents aged 16 years and older, must show clearance to leave Israel, you will receive the clearance after submitting the  exit statement form

It will be your personal choice to wear a face mask onboard. Masks remain available for anyone still wishing to wear one during the flight.

Airport guides

Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)

If you are travelling with electrical items such as laptops or cameras you may be asked at customs to pay a refundable deposit.

For more information please visit the  gov.uk website .

Help topics

Update: UK FCDO advises against ‘all but essential travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories’

A large-scale conflict has broken out in areas of southern israel, near to the border with gaza, update 12 october:.

International risk management and travel services company Healix has published its advice for those affected by the Israel-Gaza conflict.

Andrew Devereux, Risk Intelligence Manager, advised: 

• Shelter-in-place: Consider staying indoors, especially in areas affected by rocket fire and IDF operations, for at least the next 24-48 hours
• Abide by official directives: Follow instructions issued by Israeli authorities, including state of emergency measures and curfews
• Coordinate ground moves: If you need to travel, ensure coordination with professional security support until further notice
• Avoid the Gaza border: Defer travel to areas within 10 miles/16km of the Gaza border due to heightened risks
• Stay informed: Monitor the situation on the ground and real-time alerts for missile attacks using the Red Alert app
• Communication plan: Ensure that you have a communication plan in place before travelling and access to multiple means of communication
• Monitor official Israeli advice: Check for updates and guidance from Israeli authorities at  www.idf.il/en/minisites/regional-commands/home-front-command/how-to-act-during-an-alert/
• Exercise caution globally: Be aware of potential protests and incidents targeting Israeli interests worldwide
• Prepare for travel disruptions: Be prepared for possible flight cancellations and travel delays and consider alternative routes if needed.

The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice for Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs).

Its website states: “The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. In addition, we advise against all travel to:

• The Sheba’a Farms and Ghajjar
• Within 500m of the border with Lebanon (the ‘Blue Line’) east of Metula, including the northern edge of the town and and within 500m of the border with Syria (the ‘Alpha Line’)
• The area close to the border with Gaza that includes the following:
• The area southwest of Ashkelon
• The area south of route 35 and west of route 40 as far as Tlalim, not including Be’er Sheva
• The area west of Be’er Sheva
• The area north of route 211.”

A large-scale conflict is happening in areas of southern Israel close to the border with Gaza.

Reports say that rockets have been fired from Gaza into Israel and a number of terrorists are in the area, taking hostages and shooting people.

The FCDO websites advised: “If you are in an area affected by the fighting you should follow the instructions of Israeli Home Front Command.”

It added: “The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country.”

For travellers, it has warned that ‘international borders (air and land) in Israel and the OPTs could close at short notice’ and that they ‘should check with your airlines and travel insurers before travelling’. Many UK, European and US airlines have suspended flights to Israel, though the Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv remains open. While most airlines have not committed to a date at which regular services will resume, American Airlines has stated that it will not restart flights until 4 December.

For British nationals in affected areas requiring consular assistance, the numbers to call are +972 (0)3 725 1222 or +972 (2) 5414100. Additionally, ‘if you experience technical difficulties with these or if you are in the UK, call +44 20 7008 5000’, it said.

The FCDO also advised: “If you are a British National in Israel or the OPTs, please register your presence which includes recording your up to date contact information. You should fill in this form for every member of your family or group who is a British National. Your registration will allow us to share any updates to this travel advice.”

This is an ongoing and developing situation. The information in this article is correct at time of writing.

UK travel guidance says to follow Israeli advice on Gaza relocation

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

UK issues urgent warning against travel to Gaza and parts of Israel

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The British government has issued an urgent advisory warning people to avoid travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories amid an unprecedented attack by Palestinian militants . 

Gov.uk’s foreign travel advice for Israel was updated earlier today to read : ‘Following recent rocket fire from Gaza and attacks on Southern Israel, we are advising everyone to follow our travel advice […], advice from your airline and instructions from the [Israel Defence Forces] Home Front Command.’

The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office has specifically warned against all travel to Gaza, the Sheba’a Farms and Ghajjar, and any areas within 500 metres of the borders with neighbouring Lebanon and Syria, as well as all but essential travel to areas in the northern West Bank. 

Follow the latest on the Israel-Palestine conflict over on our live blog.

The department added in its recently updated guidance: ‘The security situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories can be fast moving, tense and unpredictable. You should be vigilant at all times and keep up to date with local media and travel reports.’

The violence broke out in the early hours of this morning when gunmen with the Islamist group Hamas fired thousands of rockets at Israel from the Gaza Strip.

Since the militants breached the border by tearing down fences, officials say at least 70 Israelis have died and more than 1,000 have been injured. 

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have since hit back with air strikes against Gaza, which are reported to have in turn killed almost 200 people and wounded more than 1,600, with footage circulating of whole buildings being levelled in the occupied territory. 

Hamas’ military leader Mohammed Deif has described the devastating outbreak of open hostilities as the launch of ‘Operation Al-Aqsa Storm’. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has responded by calling up reserve forces, stating: ‘We are at war and we will win.’

The UK has confirmed its support for Israel while the US has ‘unequivocally condemned’ the attacks by Hamas, with Russia calling for an immediate ceasefire and diplomatic resolution to the violence.

Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani meanwhile praised Hamas for its attack, saying: ‘What took place today is in line with the continuation of victories for the anti-Zionist resistance in different fields, including Syria, Lebanon and occupied lands.’

Any British Nationals stranded in Israel or the Occupied Palestinian Territories are encouraged to call the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office at +972 (0)3 725 1222 or +972 (2) 5414100.

MORE : It feels like Israel is unravelling – I just want us to live in peace

MORE : Governments react as Israel-Palestine hostilities continue to intensify

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

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Israel travel advice

Practical information.

Although Israel is one of the smallest countries in the Middle East, it is not short of history, breathtaking landscapes or diverse peoples. In just a few days you can experience the ancient city of Jerusalem, the metropolitan buzz of Tel Aviv, and the wealth of historic, religious and cultural sites scattered across the country.

Planning your trip

Israel is known for being an important religious destination, but there is plenty more to explore beyond the religious sites. When we design your itinerary, we’ll look at how we can tailor your trip to Israel to best suit you, whether you’re interested in religious experiences, outdoor adventure, food and culture, or other types of activity.

Combining Israel and Jordan

Many visitors to the area will choose to visit both Jordan and Israel, usually crossing the border at either the Allenby Bridge or Sheikh Hussein Bridge.

Israel’s national language is Hebrew, though thanks to the large immigrant population you’re likely to hear a host of other languages spoken, including Arabic and Russian. Many people will speak at least some English though and all your guides will speak English very well.

Food & drink

Israeli cuisine reflects the diversity of its people, drawing influence from European and Middle Eastern Jews, Arabs, Armenians and more. Restaurants in Israel are particularly good; the high cost of renting premises forces many restaurants to compete at a very high level in order to stay in business. As a result, you’ll find excellent meals almost everywhere, especially in Tel Aviv. Street food is also very popular, with shawarma (thinly sliced meat in a bread pocket), falafel and bourekas (pastries commonly filled with cheese, potato, spinach or mushrooms) widely on offer.

As in much of the Middle East, coffee and tea are also incredibly popular in Israel. However, depending on whether you’re in a predominantly Jewish or Arab area, you may find some slight differences in the way they’re served. In Jewish areas you’ll find tea and coffee in European or American cafés, while in Arab areas you’ll find them in coffee houses which often serve nothing else.

Festivals & public holidays

With large Jewish and Christian populations, there are several festivals and holidays throughout the year, both joyful and solemn. Early in the year you can experience the joyous festival of Purim, when people fill the streets with carnival-style parades and music, while more solemn holidays like Yom Kippur will bring quiet streets, closed shops and fasting throughout the country. Additionally, on Shabbat — beginning at sundown on Friday and ending at sundown on Saturday — many Jews will refrain from doing any kind of work, even things as simple as using the phone or turning on a light. Many restaurants in Jerusalem close for Shabbat, though hotel restaurants generally stay open.

Public holidays

Most of Israel’s public holidays follow the Jewish lunar calendar, so their actual dates will vary from year to year. Below is a list of public holidays with the times of year at which they generally fall:

• March — Purim
• April — Passover
• April/May — Yom Haatzmaut (Independence Day)
• May/June — Pentecost
• July/August — Tisha B’Av
• September/October — Rosh Hashanah
• September/October — Yom Kippur
• September/October — Sukkot
• September/October — Simchat Torah

Tipping in Israel is not quite as intrinsic to the culture as in other areas in the region, though it’s always an accepted gesture. Some restaurants and cafés have introduced mandatory service charges, though in most cases you can tip what you like — we would recommend 10-15% for good service.

Money & expenses

Israel’s currency is the New Israeli Shekel. There are 100 agorot (agora singular) in a shekel. Major credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are relatively common though not all have the option to switch from Hebrew to English.

Communications

The country code for Israel is +972. Making international calls from hotels can be expensive, but most hotels, restaurants and cafés will offer free Wi-Fi. It’s also a good idea to check with your mobile phone provider to find out about international roaming plans and costs.

Most parts of Israel exhibit a fairly western attitude, with some exceptions in Orthodox or Palestinian areas. It’s also expected that visitors will be properly dressed in certain public areas and at religious sites, with shoulders and legs covered. At some Jewish sites, men may be asked to wear a kippah (a small brimless cap), though a paper one will usually be provided.

Do not photograph anything related to the military or to government buildings, especially bridges, canals or anything that could be deemed as having strategic significance. It’s also always good to ask people’s permission before photographing them.

Smoking in public is generally banned in Israel, though some restaurants may have a separate smoking area.

Travel Advice

Our country specialists can advise on any safety concerns you may have. For current information, please refer to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website .

When to go to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories

You'll find temperature and rainfall information, together with a month-by-month guide on visiting, on our guide for when to go to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

More Information

Flight Time 4 hours 55 upwards dependent on airline (London to Tel Aviv)

Time Zone UTC +3

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Israel-Hamas Conflict

Last updated: 17 October 2023

We are deeply anguished by the violence taking place in Israel since October 7 th 2023, and our deepest sympathies go out to everyone affected by the conflict.

Israel declared war on Hamas on October 8 th  2023, and most foreign governments have enacted travel advisories against all but essential travel to Israel. Most international airlines have either suspended or delayed their flights into the country. 

We understand that our customers, whether in Israel or planning to travel there, may have questions and concerns about their travel insurance coverage. For customers who are due to travel to Israel in the coming days or weeks, we recommend contacting your airline or tour operator to review options. Acts of war are generally not covered by many of our travel insurance policies, and we recommend that our customers refer to their policy documentation to review their specific terms and conditions.

Customers who may be traveling to neighboring countries are advised to reach out to their travel company or tour operator regarding potential alternatives. Our customer service agents are available 24/7 to answer any questions our customers may have. The contact numbers can be found on our website .

Need help? Call us on: 0371 200 0428

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The Occupied Palestinian Territories

Warnings and insurance.

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

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

FCDO advises against all travel to Gaza.

Areas near Gaza

FCDO advises against all travel to the area close to the border with Gaza that includes:

• south-west of Ashkelon
• south of route 35 and west of route 40 as far as Tlalim, not including Be’er Sheva
• west of Be’er Sheva
• north of route 211

The West Bank

FCDO advises against all travel to the West Bank, excluding East Jerusalem and Route 1 between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

Northern Israel

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• within 5km of the border with Lebanon – the Israeli military has announced that the area is a closed military zone and entry into the area is prohibited
• the Sheba’a Farms and Ghajjar
• within 500m of the border with Syria (the ‘Alpha Line’)
• Beit Hillel
• Even Menachem
• Granot Ha’Galil
• Ramot Naftali
• She’ar Yeshuv

The rest of Israel and the OPTs

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the rest of Israel and the OPTs .

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Conflict in Israel and the OPTs

On 7 October 2023 there was a large-scale terrorist attack by Hamas in southern Israel. Hamas continues to launch rockets into Israel and the Israeli Defence Forces are conducting significant military activity in Gaza.

There is also increased military activity by the Israeli Defence Forces around Gaza, within the West Bank and on Israel’s northern border.

There are continued exchanges of rocket and small arms fire over Israel’s northern border with Lebanon and a potential increase in rocket attacks and other incidents of violence across Israel and the OPTs , including the West Bank.

On 13 April 2024 Iran launched an attack against Israel, using UAVs, ballistic and cruise missiles fired from Iran into Israel.

On 19 April, there have been reports of explosions in Iran, and unconfirmed reports of explosions in Syria and Iraq.

We recognise this a fast-moving situation that poses significant risks. The situation has potential to deteriorate quickly and without warning. This could disrupt air and road links out of the country. If your reason to remain in Israel and the OPTs is not essential, you should consider leaving if it is safe to do so.

If you are in an area affected by the fighting, follow the instructions of Israeli Home Front Command. To find these:

• visit the Israeli Home Front Command website (available in Israel only)
• call 104 if you are in Israel

The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country. International borders (air and land) in Israel and the OPTs could close at short notice. Check the travel advice for any neighbouring country that you are planning to travel to or through.

Before travelling within Israel or  the OPTs , check the local measures in place, that roads are open and, where appropriate, that scheduled train and bus services are operating.

Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Read FCDO advice if you’re affected by a crisis abroad .

Travel within or out of Israel or the OPTs is at your own risk. You are encouraged to follow the advice of local authorities, for example on which routes are open or when to take shelter.

Travelling to Egypt from Gaza

The Rafah border crossing continues to be open for controlled and time-limited periods to allow specific groups of foreign nationals, including British nationals, to cross. It is for the Egyptian and Israeli authorities to determine who is permitted to cross, and when. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs will contact embassies to let them know when their foreign nationals can cross. Should we receive notification from the Israeli and Egyptian authorities that individuals are permitted to cross, we will notify those people individually.

If you are a British national in Gaza who wants to leave Gaza, you should make contact with us as soon as possible.

If you are a UK visa holder who meets all of the following criteria, you can contact us to request support to leave Gaza:

• you have a spouse/partner or a child aged 17 or under currently living in the UK; and
• you hold valid permission to enter or remain in the UK for longer than 6 months

Contact FCDO by calling:

• +44 176 766 7600 (UK number)
• +972 (0)3 725 1222
• +972 (0)2 541 4100

Movement to the Rafah crossing and beyond is at your own risk, and dependent on the permission of the Egyptian and Israeli authorities. You should only travel if you judge it is safe to do so. Check the Egypt travel advice .

Help and support in Israel and the OPTs

Contact your travel provider and insurer.

Contact your travel provider and your insurer. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Help from FCDO in Israel and the OPTs

Consular support is severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

If you need consular assistance call:

Help from other organisations 

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

Concern for friends and family

If you are in the UK and concerned about a friend or family member who is in Israel or the OPTs call FCDO on 020 7008 5000. 

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

• women travellers
• disabled travellers
• LGBT+ travellers
• solo and independent travel
• volunteering and adventure travel

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice 

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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UK government lawyers say Israel is breaking international law, claims top Tory in leaked recording

Chair of foreign affairs select committee Alicia Kearns said at a Tory fundraiser that legal advice would mean the UK has to cease all arms sales to Israel without delay

Analysis: starvation in Gaza likely key to UK legal advice on war crimes

The British government has received advice from its own lawyers stating that Israel has breached international humanitarian law in Gaza but has failed to make it public, according to a leaked recording obtained by the Observer .

The comments, made by the Conservative chair of the House of Commons select committee on foreign affairs, Alicia Kearns, at a Tory fundraising event on 13 March are at odds with repeated ministerial denials and evasion on the issue.

On Saturday night, Kearns, a former Foreign Office and Ministry of Defence official, who has repeatedly pressed ministers, including foreign secretary David Cameron , on the legal advice they have received, stood by her comments and called for the government to come clean.

“I remain convinced the government has completed its updated assessment on whether Israel is demonstrating a commitment to international humanitarian law, and that it has concluded that Israel is not demonstrating this commitment, which is the legal determination it has to make,” she said. “Transparency at this point is paramount, not least to uphold the international rules-based order.”

The revelation will place Lord Cameron and prime minister Rishi Sunak under intense pressure because any such legal advice would mean the UK had to cease all arms sales to Israel without delay.

Legal experts said that not to do so would risk putting the UK in breach of international law itself, as it would be seen as aiding and abetting war crimes by a country it was exporting arms to.

Answering questions at an “evening drinks reception” hosted by the West Hampstead and Fortune Green Conservatives in London, Kearns said: “The Foreign Office has received official legal advice that Israel has broken international humanitarian law but the government has not announced it.

“They have not said it, they haven’t stopped arms exports. They have done a few very small sanctions on Israeli settlers and everyone internationally is agreed that settlers are illegal, that they shouldn’t be doing what they’re doing, and the ways in which they have continued and the money that’s been put in.”

Kearns told the gathering that both she and Cameron believed strongly in Israel’s right to defend itself. “But the right to self-defence has a limit in law. It is not limitless,” she said, going on to suggest that Israel’s actions put its and the UK’s long-term security at risk.

“Some of the ways in which Israel is prosecuting this is making their long-term security less certain. It is making our long-term security less certain. I’m amazed that our national threat level has not gone up. And it breaks my heart because I know it could be done differently.”

The British barrister Sir Geoffrey Nice, who was the lead prosecutor at former Serbian president Slobodan Milošević’s trial from 2002 to 2006, said he would not be at all surprised if such advice had been given by government lawyers and called for it to be made public.

Nice said: “A warring party becomes unlawful if it cannot show that its actions have been proportionate. It would not be surprising if there had been advice to that effect from the Foreign Office’s lawyers.”

Were that to be the case, he said that “at the very least that would mean the UK would have to look at the whole issue of arms sales to Israel. It takes you into the area of aiding and abetting. It takes you into to very difficult areas.”

He added: “Countries supplying arms to Israel may now be complicit in criminal warfare. The public should be told what the advice says.”

The UK’s arms exports to Israel amounted to £42m in 2022, a figure described by defence secretary Grant Shapps as “relatively small”.

But former lord chancellor Charles Falconer said a legal assessment that Israel had broken international law would also prevent the UK sharing intelligence with Israel.

“Governments who abide by the rule of law cannot ignore mounting evidence of breach which would then put those governments in breach if they continued assisting,” he said.

In a session of the foreign affairs select committee in January, Cameron was asked directly by Kearns whether “you have never had a piece of paper put in front of you by a Foreign Office lawyer that says that Israel is in breach of its international humanitarian commitments under international humanitarian law”.

Cameron stated that “I cannot recall every single bit of paper that has been put in front of me … I don’t want to answer that question.”

He later said that “if you are asking me whether I am worried that Israel has taken action that might be in breach of international law … yes, of course I am worried about that. That is why I consult the Foreign Office lawyers when giving this advice on arms exports.”

Other UK ministers have previously claimed that Israel has abided by international law. In late November, business secretary Kemi Badenoch said on Sky News that “we’ve always said that Israel should abide by international law, and that appears to be what they have done … It looks like they have taken great pains to make sure that they’re staying within the confines of the law. We applaud them for that.”

Labour has repeatedly called for the government to be transparent about the legal advice it has received.

On 22 March, David Lammy MP, the shadow foreign secretary, wrote to Cameron, calling on him to publish the legal advice on Israel’s compliance with international humanitarian law.

On 26 March in the House of Commons, Lammy asked the minister for development and Africa, Andrew Mitchell MP, if the foreign secretary had received legal advice saying there was a clear risk that items licensed by the UK might be used to commit or facilitate a serious violation of international humanitarian law. Mitchell said “no government do[es] that”, adding later that “we do not disclose our internal legal advice”.

Last week, the international court of justice ordered Israel to allow unimpeded access of food aid into Gaza, where huge numbers of people are facing imminent starvation . Cameron has repeatedly voiced his frustration at Israel’s action in blocking aid from crossing the border into Gaza.

The war began on 7 October after Hamas launched an attack inside Israel that killed more than 1,100 Israelis, mostly civilians, and took about 250 people hostage.

Israeli military attacks on Gaza have resulted in the death of more than 32,000 people, the majority women and children, according to local health authorities.

A Foreign Office spokesperson said: “We keep advice on Israel’s adherence to international humanitarian law under review and ministers act in accordance with that advice, for example, when considering export licences. The content of the government’s advice is confidential.”

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Middle East latest: Hamas releases hostage video; Hezbollah dismisses 'worthless' Israeli claims on commanders killed

Joe Biden has signed a $95bn security package after months of delays - including around $26bn for Israel. A US envoy has said Israel must do everything possible to avoid famine in Gaza. Listen to a Daily podcast on how the conflict is worsening Yemen's humanitarian crisis as you scroll.

Thursday 25 April 2024 01:15, UK

• Israel-Hamas war
• Hamas releases video of hostage in Gaza
• Hezbollah dismisses 'worthless' Israeli claims on commanders killed
• IDF 'poised to launch offensive' on Gaza city of Rafah
• Israel 'hits 40 Hezbollah targets' in Lebanon
• The big picture : What you need to know about the conflict in the Middle East right now
• Listen to the Sky News Daily above and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts

We'll be back tomorrow with more updates on the Israel-Hamas war.

We reported earlier that the Houthis had attacked what they said were two American ships and an Israeli vessel (see post at 8.44pm).

Now, we are receiving more information on this.

The Iran-aligned group said it targeted the US ship Maersk Yorktown, an American destroyer in the Gulf of Aden and Israeli ship MSC Veracruz in the Indian Ocean.

The spokesman Yahya Sarea said: "The Yemeni armed forces confirm they will continue to prevent Israeli navigation or any navigation heading to the ports of occupied Palestine in the Red and Arabian Seas, as well as in the Indian Ocean."

Separately, British maritime security firm Ambrey said that it was aware of an incident southwest of the port city of Aden, an area where the Houthis often target ships they say are linked to Israel or the US.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan has said he expects to travel to Saudi Arabia in the next few weeks after postponing the trip due to a cracked rib.

Mr Sullivan told reporters he was feeling much better after the rib injury and that he was about 80% recovered. 

He is to discuss with Saudi officials whether a deal to normalise relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia can be reached.

By Dominic Waghorn , international affairs editor

Deep below Jerusalem, Israeli doctors are preparing for the worst.

Sky News has been given exclusive access to an underground hospital where they are expanding capacity in case the current conflict becomes much worse.

In a bunker below the Herzog Medical Centre the number of beds has been increased to 350 with 100 on the way. 

"Because it's built to withstand both biological and chemical attacks," Dr Yehezkel Caine told Sky News as we entered the complex.

"We have an airlock which is built of two separate sets of blast doors."

Beyond they have installed a whole new level of wards below the existing underground hospital, ripping out a logistics floor and installing more beds and equipment. 

The bunkers would be activated should other hospitals closer to the front need evacuating.  They are planning for worst case scenarios here like an all out war with Hezbollah.

"The hospitals in the north will be overwhelmed with casualties and they themselves will come under fire in which case they would have to evacuate their patients to the centre of the country, the same as we did in the first weeks of the war in the south," Dr Caine said.

Dr Caine and his staff know that after 7 October and the attack by Iran everything has changed for the people of Israel.

He said: "For the civilian population since the war of independence we've never been in a situation where the threat to the civilian population has been as great."

Above ground the Herzog Medical Centre continues with its peacetime specialisms.  

It has Israel's largest ventilator unit, treating adults and children, but also excels in psycho trauma treatment and geriatric rehabilitation. 

Many of those suffering PTSD from the trauma in this conflict are treated here.  

If Jerusalem itself is attacked the hospital can evacuate even the most vulnerable to the bunkers below in just a few hours. The bunkers can be entirely sealed off for 96 hours in what's called a Noah's Ark procedure. 

The Herzog drills its staff regularly, preparing for a reality its hope will never come. 

But events on the northern border are looking ominous.  

Israel has launched one of its biggest bombardments yet of Hezbollah after multiple shelling of northern Israeli communities. 

The lower level war continues with the ever present danger of escalation into something much bigger. 

If it comes, doctors in Jerusalem's biggest underground hospital say they'll be ready.

The Houthis have said they targeted an American warship destroyer in the Gulf of Aden today.

In a televised speech, the Iran-aligned group's military spokesman Yahya Sarea said the Maersk Yorktown container had also been targeted.

They also claimed they had targeted the Israeli ship MSC Veracruz in the Indian Ocean.

 The parents of Israeli-American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin have called on leaders to "get a deal done" and bring back the hostages, as they asked their son to "stay strong and survive".

In response to the video released today by Hamas of their son, Rachel Goldberg-Polin and Jon Polin, said seeing the video of Hersh today was "overwhelming".

Mr Polin said: "We are relieved to see him alive but we are also concerned about his health and wellbeing as well as that of all the other hostages and all of those suffering in this region.

"We are here today with a plea, to all of the leaders of the parties that have been negotiating to date - that includes Qatar, Egypt, the US, Hamas and Israel.

"Be brave, lean in, seize this moment and get a deal done to reunite all of us with our loved ones and to end the suffering in this region."

Speaking directly to Hersh, his mother said: "If you can hear this, we heard your voice today for first time in 201 days and if you can hear us I am telling you, we are telling you, we love you, stay strong, survive."

The Israeli army's chief-of-staff and the head of one of Israel's intelligence agencies visited Cairo to discuss its planned ground operation in Rafah, according to the Axios news website.

Three senior Israeli officials told the outlet that Herzl Halevi and Shin Bet's director Ronen Bar met with Egyptian officials, who are concerned an operation would lead to tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians fleeing into their territory.

Egypt has repeatedly warned Israel against an operation in Rafah, with which it shares a border and where more than a million Palestinians have been displaced to.

An Israeli government spokesperson said earlier today Israel will move ahead with its planned ground operation in the city (see post at 2pm).

The US State Department has called "dangerous and reckless" the reports that Israel is pushing to legalise dozens of settler outposts in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. 

Speaking at a daily press briefing, deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel also said Washington was continuing to press the government of Israel for more information on reports of mass graves in Gaza.

Explained: Earlier this week, reports emerged that Israel's finance minister Bezalel Smotrich was pushing to begin the process of legalising outposts in the West Bank.

Mr Smotrich sent instructions to several ministries telling them to begin preparations, the Times of Israel reported, citing Israel's Channel 12 News.

Reports have also emerged of mass graves discovered in the Khan Younis area of southern Gaza. The IDF said the claim that troops buried Palestinian bodies was "baseless and unfounded".

Hamas has posted a video showing an Israeli-American hostage on its Telegram account.

The short video, which is undated, purportedly shows Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who was captured by Hamas at the Nova music festival during the 7 October attacks, alive.

It shows the 23-year-old, who is from California, missing his lower arm, which was blown off during the attack.

Speaking under duress while in captivity, Mr Goldberg-Polin says he is in "underground hell" and without the treatment he has needed.

"Benjamin Netanyahu and his government should be ashamed of yourselves because you neglected us along with thousands of other citizens," he says, urging the Israeli prime minister to resign after "rejecting" deals to release the hostages.

Every day the hostages are in Gaza they are ignored "more and more", he says.

"You ignore our blood... Do what is expected of you and bring us home immediately, or has this become too big for you?"

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society has released footage of plumes of smoke rising into the air after a house was reportedly shelled.

The shelling took place in Deir al Balah, in central Gaza.

After weeks of relative calm, Israel intensified its attacks overnight on Monday, focusing on areas - particularly in the north - from where it had previously withdrawn troops.

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Foreign Office travel warning for anyone going to Egypt and Morocco as 'situation changing fast'

U K tourists planning to visit Egypt or Morocco have been alerted to a rapidly changing situation in the Middle East following serious events over the weekend.

The popularity of Egypt and Morocco as holiday destinations have surged recently thanks to their affordable luxury resorts and hot climate which is drawing in UK holidaymakers. However, in light of an attack by Iran on Israel last week, the UK government has revised its travel guidance for both countries.

Although Egypt and Morocco were not targets in the recent strike, the Foreign Office updated its advice on the gov.uk website, cautioning travellers: "On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel . Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram."

Egypt, which shares a land border with Israel, has specific advisories regarding certain areas. The government advises: "FCDO advises against all travel to within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border, except for the town of El Salloum (where we advise against all but essential travel)."

Additionally, British nationals are urged to avoid North Sinai, South Sinai, the Hala'ib Triangle, the Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez Canal, and various locations in the Western Desert west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, reports the Mirror .

The ministry warns: "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. You should remain vigilant at all times. Terrorism is a risk across Egypt, particularly in North Sinai. Attacks could be indiscriminate.

"The authorities in Egypt have a significant security presence across the country, including armed security officers at important sites, critical infrastructure and road checkpoints. Extra measures are in place at tourist sites.

"There is a heightened threat of terrorism in and around religious sites and during religious festivals, such as the month of Ramadan and the Christmas period (including Coptic Christmas in January). Terrorist attacks have occurred over local holiday weekends."

It also cautioned about a threat of kidnapping by terrorist groups near the border and remote desert areas stating: "British nationals are viewed as legitimate targets, including those engaged in tourism, humanitarian aid work, journalism or business sectors. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to serve as a protection or secure your safe release."

The Foreign Office has also updated its travel advice for Morocco, issuing new cautions to British nationals. The update includes a stark warning: "On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Morocco. 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. You should remain vigilant at all times."

Additionally, the risk associated with local sympathies towards extremist groups was underlined: "There is an increased threat linked to the number of Moroccans sympathetic or belonging to Daesh (formerly ISIL) and other extremist groups. Authorities regularly disrupt terrorist cells. While there have been no recent kidnappings of foreign nationals in Morocco, it cannot be ruled out."

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Iran-Israel conflict: Is my flight safe, will I be re-routed and what if I missed my connection?

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The world is watching with concern the increasing tension in the Middle East and the potential next steps. But already the effects of Iran’s attack on Israel on Saturday night, and wider worries about the unstable situation, has had a significant impact on aviation.

Airline passengers flying to, from or via the Middle East are facing disruption. Flights to and from the UK have been cancelled or diverted, and detours around the region are jeopardising flight connections – particularly at Gulf airports.

What are the rights of disrupted passengers – and for travellers who have safety concerns? These are the key questions and answers.

What was the impact on aviation of the Iranian attack on Israel?

Ahead of the attack most countries in the region closed their airspace to passenger aircraft, leading to many diversions and planes returning to their starting points.

With Israel under attack, all airports in the country were closed – as was airspace in other countries. For example, the Saturday evening British Airways flight from London Heathrow to the Jordanian capital, Amman , travelled as far as Basel in Switzerland before turning around and returning to its starting point.

Virgin Atlantic’s Saturday evening flight from Heathrow to Mumbai flew to central Turkey before turning around and heading for Istanbul to refuel before continuing to India by a much more northerly route than normal.

Passengers on the Israeli airline El Al from Luton to Tel Aviv were diverted to the Lebanese capital, Beirut. Lebanon is one of several countries in the region that the Foreign Office warns against visiting , but evidently the airlines decided it was the safer option. Apart from one Aeroflot flight from Moscow to Dubai , which flew straight over Iran, almost all airlines avoided the entire region, resulting in much longer flights.

What are the consequences of longer flights?

A good example is MH2, the Malaysia Airlines flight from Kuala Lumpur to London Heathrow overnight on Saturday, due to arrive in the UK early on Sunday morning.

The most direct route between the two airports is off-limits because it goes over Russia, from which many airlines are banned. Instead, the usual chosen track by Malaysia Airlines and many other airlines is to fly directly over Iran.

Over the weekend that changed: the plane arrived over two hours late after making a detour over Saudi Arabia and Egypt . Unlike some other flights, the crew did not need to refuel. Some other planes had to stop along the way because they could not reach their destinations safely without taking on more fuel.

But anyone connecting at Heathrow to other destinations in the UK, Europe or North America is likely to have missed connections.

What’s the situation now?

Most airlines are still giving the area a wide berth. The two main ways to do that between the UK and Asia are to detour to the south, over Saudi Arabia and Egypt, or to the north – squeezing through a relatively narrow corridor of Azerbaijan’s airspace between the southern tip of Russia and the northern tip of Iran.

With this flightpath, UK-bound aircraft are still unable to take the optimum route because that crosses Ukraine – whose airspace has been closed to passenger planes since the Russian invasion.

The concentration of Europe-Asia air traffic into so small an area leads to congestion on air-traffic lanes and possible delays – on top of the extra flying time involved.

For example the Sunday night Emirates flight from Glasgow to Dubai arrived at the Middle Eastern hub two hours late because of delays caused by the longer routing outbound and inbound– leading to many missed connections.

Passengers connecting to Sydney from Glasgow have a normal connecting time of 70 minutes, which was rendered impossible by the late arrival.

If I miss a connection, what are my rights?

For journeys from the UK, you are entitled a hotel, meals and onward travel as soon as possible – including on a rival airline if necessary.

Travelling to the UK, non-British or non-European airlines have no such obligation to provide care – though many carriers will do so. They should find you a way to get you to your destination, but are not required to find space on other airlines.

What do the aviation authorities say?

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency says it “remains vigilant with respect to the situation in the Middle East”. The body insists: “There was no overflight risk for civil aviation at any time.” But it also says of Iranian airspace: “There continues to be an increased potential for miscalculation and/or misidentification at present.”

Four years ago, the Iranian military shot down a Ukrainian passenger plane departing normally from Tehran to Kyiv after a chain of errors. All 176 passengers and crew aboard the Boeing 737 died. Tension in the region had risen sharply immediately before the crash, with Iran firing missiles at bases with US troops in Iraq.

It appears from information on the tracking service Flightradar24 that Emirates, which has a huge network of flights from UK airports, has resumed overflying Iran. The Independent has asked for a statement about this.

What if passengers are anxious about their journeys and want to cancel?


Normal terms apply – and you can expect zero or very little refund from the cost of your flight.

Would you willingly fly to, from or via the region?

Yes. An obsession with risk management has made aviation astonishingly safe. I entrust my safety to the men and women flying the plane and the smart, informed people who are watching the world on their behalf.

Should I worry about taking my holiday in Turkey this summer?

You should always be conscious of risks abroad. But for Turkey, as with most other countries, my focus is not on the danger of being caught up in a war. Tragically, conflicts have dragged on for decades in the Middle East, successively causing devastation in Lebanon, Iraq and Syria. But they have not affected holidaymakers in nearby countries.

I sympathise with anyone who is concerned about war spilling over, but they should note that the Turkish resort of Bodrum, for example, is over 500 miles from Israel. Cyprus is much nearer to Israel; Larnaca is 200 miles from Tel Aviv. But, again, there is no official warning about threats posed by the Israel-Iran conflict on that island.

I urge instead a focus on a statistically much more likely risk: being involved in a road accident in those places because driving standards are relatively poor. The Foreign Office warns: “Accidents are common and mainly due to poor or reckless driving.” I do all I can to reduce the amount of road travel, taking trains where possible – or trusting in a professionally driven bus.

For completeness, my same advice applies for holidays in Egypt and Jordan: there is no warning against travelling to all the normal tourist locations. Indeed, it may be that you could find bargains as well as an especially warm welcome in those countries if other travellers stay away.

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