WASHINGTON DC: The US Department of State on Monday updated its travel advisory for Israel, West Bank, and Gaza to Level 4, warning Americans not to travel to the region due to heightened security risks amid Israel-Iran war.
The update reflected the authorized departure of family members and certain non-emergency US government personnel. The advisory cautioned US citizens not to travel to the country due to “armed conflict, terrorism and civil unrest.”
The escalated warning from the State Department comes on the fourth day of attacks exchanged between Israel and Iran, which has launched retaliatory strikes against Israel after its sweeping attacks targeting military and nuclear infrastructure late last week.
Tehran said at least 224 people have been killed in the assault since last Friday. At least 24 people in Israel have died in Iranian ballistic missile launches that have managed to make it through Israeli air defenses, Israel’s military said.
On June 14, the Department of State authorized the voluntary departure of family members and non-emergency US government employees due to the volatile and unpredictable security situation in the region.
In response to security incidents and without prior notice, the US Embassy may further restrict or prohibit travel for US government employees and their family members to certain parts of Israel, including the Old City of Jerusalem and the West Bank, added the statement from US Department of State.
Northern Israel, specifically within 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) of the Lebanese and Syrian borders, is also under a strict no-travel advisory due to continued military presence and activity, added the statement.
The travel advisory explained that terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists, and other violent extremists continue to plot possible attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.
Such attacks may occur with little or no warning and could target tourist locations, transportation hubs, shopping malls, and local government facilities.
(ANI)
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