Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
\nFCDO advises against all travel to Gaza
\n\nFCDO advises against all travel within 500m of the border with Gaza
\n\nFCDO advises against all travel to:
\n\nFCDO advises against all travel to:
\n\nAreas north of Route 89 between Nahariyya and Dalton; north of a straight eastward line from Dalton to Route 91; and north of Route 91 across the Golan Heights, excluding routes 89 and 91 themselves
\nWithin 500m of the Area of Separation in the occupied Golan Heights (the ‘Alpha line’). Do not attempt to enter the occupied Golan Heights through Syria
\nSheba’a Farms and Ghajja
\nFCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
\n\nFind out more about why FCDO advises against travel.
\n\nThe US and Iran announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on 17 June in relation to the conflict in the Middle East, however the situation in the Middle East remains unpredictable. Since 8 July there have been strikes and retaliatory attacks by Iran in a number of locations across the region against US military and civilian infrastructure. There is a risk of more attacks and unforeseen escalation in the region. Before the ceasefire, the Iranian regime had stated its intention to target locations associated with the US and Israel, including organisations, businesses, facilities, and institutions.
\n\nBritish nationals currently in the Middle East should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions, and should:
\n\nread If you’re affected by a crisis abroad - GOV.UK. This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis”
\nsign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts
\nfollow advice from the local authorities
\nmonitor local and international media for the latest information, including updates relating to airports and airspace which could close at short notice
\nstay away from areas around security or military facilities
\nkeep your departure plans under review, and ensure your travel documents are up to date
\nif advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection. The greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts, and you are safest inside a secure structure. Do not approach or touch any drone or missile fragments or unusual objects
\nFollow the instructions of the local authorities. If you are advised to take shelter, Israel’s Home Front Command provides guidance on how to find a protected space. The best option is a residential protected space (Mamad, Mamak or Maman) or a communal shelter. If that is not possible, choose a stairwell without windows and exterior walls and stay at its centre.
\n\nSign up to receive information and alerts. Visit Israel’s Home Front Command.
\nDue to ongoing regional tensions, we recommend against all travel to some parts of Israel and Palestine.
\n\nThe situation could escalate quickly and poses significant risks. Regional tensions may cause international borders (air and land) to close.
\n\nIf you are in Israel and Palestine, be aware that whilst the frequency of missile and drone attacks has decreased there is a risk of rocket and drone attacks throughout Israel. There is a risk of shrapnel from intercepted missiles falling across Israel and Palestine, and possible disruption at Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv.
\n\nPolitical tension can cause demonstrations and clashes around anniversaries and significant events.
\n\nKeep up to date through local media and follow the instructions of Israeli Home Front Command. To find these:
\n\nvisit the Israeli Home Front Command website (available in Israel only)
\ncall 104 if you are in Israel
\nBefore travelling within Israel or Palestine, check the local measures in place, that roads are open and, where appropriate, that scheduled train and bus services are operating.
\n\nTravel within or out of Israel or Palestine 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.
\n\nBorder crossings out of Gaza have been closed to civilians and general traffic since the Israeli military took control of the Rafah crossing on 6 May 2024. Consular support is not available from within Gaza. If you are a British national in Gaza who wants to leave Gaza, you should make contact with us as soon as possible. There are currently no exit routes available for foreign nationals to depart Gaza independently. We are working with the Israeli, Palestinian and other authorities in the region to help British nationals leave via safe routes.
\n\nIf you are a UK visa holder who meets all of the following criteria, you can contact us to request support to leave Gaza if:
\n\nyou have a spouse/partner or a child aged 17 or under currently living in the UK, and
\nyou hold valid permission to enter or remain in the UK for longer than 6 months
\nKeep up to date with local travel advice through local news outlets and international outlets like the Access Coordination Unit.
\n\nNo travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:
\n\nIf you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
\n\nFCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\n\n\n","slug":"warnings-and-insurance","title":"Warnings and insurance"},{"body":"This travel advice covers Israel and Palestine.
\nThis information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK who choose to travel despite FCDO advice. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.
\n\nThe authorities in Israel and Palestine set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Israeli Embassy in London or the Palestinian Mission to the UK.
\n\nCheck Israeli immigration policies before you travel. Allow extra time for increased security measures and checks at airports, especially during Israeli holidays and during the summer tourist season.
\n\nTo enter Israel or Palestine, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 90 days after the date you arrive.
\n\nCheck with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
\n\nYou will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
\n\nYou can visit Israel without a visa as a tourist. On entry, visitors get permission to stay for up to 3 months. However, if you are a dual national, read the dual nationals guidance for more information.
\n\nIf you work in Israel without the proper permissions, you can be detained and deported. This process could take several months.
\n\nAs of 1 January 2025, to visit Israel you will need to get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before you arrive. The ETA is valid for 2 years and covers a visit of 90 days. It will cost 25 new Israeli shekels. You can check your eligibility and apply for an ETA with the Israel Population and Immigration authority.
\n\nVisitors entering via Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport get an entry card instead of an entry stamp in their passport. At other entry points to the country, you may get an entry card or you may get a stamp.
\n\nKeep your entry card with your passport until you leave. This is evidence that you entered Israel legally. You may need it, particularly if you’re crossing into Palestine. If you’re refused entry to Israel, your passport may be stamped with an entry stamp and 2 red lines drawn across it to show the refusal.
\n\nEntry stamps that state ‘Palestinian Authority only’ or ‘Judea and Samaria only’ have been issued to some travellers at:
\n\nSince travellers entering by the Allenby Bridge crossing must pass through Israeli checkpoints and Israeli-controlled territory to reach Jerusalem or Gaza, this effectively limits travellers who receive this stamp.
\n\nIt is not clear how travellers who get this stamp at Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport can leave the airport without violating the restriction.
\n\nThis stamp has been issued to travellers who have no Palestinian or other Arab ancestry, and do not seem to have a claim to a Palestinian Authority ID.
\n\nThe Israeli authorities decide if you can enter Israel. You may experience lengthy personal questioning and baggage searches at security when you enter and leave Israel. Some visitors may face longer searches and questioning, including those:
\n\nForeign nationals can legally be refused entry if they:
\n\nTravellers, particularly those who fall into these categories, may be held at border control for more checks, sometimes for several hours, including in detention facilities. Israeli security has sometimes requested access to travellers’ personal email or social media accounts as a condition of entry. Your baggage or digital devices may also be searched and could be withheld.
\n\nEvidence of previous travel to another country in the region, such as entry or exit stamps in your passport, does not normally stop you entering Israel. However, you may face extra questioning at the border.
\n\nIf you have concerns about visas or entry into Israel, including whether previous travel can affect you travelling there, contact the Israeli Embassy in the UK before you travel.
\n\nIf you’re refused entry to Israel, you will be booked on the next available flight back to where you flew in from, on the same airline.
\n\nDepending on the flight schedule, you may be taken to the Immigration Detention Centre (a few minutes’ drive from the airport) to wait until your flight departs. You will have access to a telephone, information in English and medical assistance if needed. Your luggage will stay at the airport, so tell officials if you need to retrieve anything urgent from your luggage, for example medication.
\n\nYou can contact the British Embassy in Israel from the detention centre. They can help where possible but cannot intervene in immigration decisions.
\n\nThe Israeli authorities control entry to Palestine, including by sea to Gaza. You must show a passport and Israeli immigration slip to cross between Israel and Palestine.
\n\nRead about the requirements for foreign nationals entering the West Bank on the Israeli government website.
\n\nIsraeli border officials at Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport have asked some travellers to sign a form stating they are not allowed to enter territories controlled by the Palestinian Authority unless they get advance authorisation from the Israeli ‘Territory Actions Co-ordinator’. You can be deported from Israel and barred from entry for up to 10 years for violating this restriction.
\n\nIf immigration officials believe you plan to enter Gaza without permission, or that you’re entering Israel to work in Palestine, they may refuse you entry.
\n\nFCDO cannot support your application for entry or exit permits for Gaza. If you decide to visit Gaza against FCDO advice, you must contact the relevant authorities well in advance. FCDO cannot provide administrative support to UK charities wishing to enter Gaza by the Rafah crossing.
\n\nThe Rafah border regularly closes with no warning and for long periods. The Erez border is currently closed. At these times it may be impossible to enter or leave Gaza.
\n\nIsraeli checkpoints may close on Israeli public holidays and during periods of increased instability. There have been increased movement and access restrictions across the West Bank with unpredictable opening and closing times. There is information on known checkpoint closures on the UN website. This can change at short notice.
\n\nForeign nationals may encounter suspicion or hostility at checkpoints and in areas not frequented by foreign nationals.
\n\nWhen returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
\n\nIf you’re a British national of Palestinian origin (on the Palestinian Population Register or holding a Palestinian ID number), you must have a Palestinian passport or travel document to leave Gaza or the West Bank.
\n\nIf you’re a British national with a Palestinian name or place of birth but without a Palestinian ID number, you may face problems. British nationals of Palestinian origin or British nationals married to Palestinians have been refused entry into Israel.
\n\nBritish-Palestinian dual nationals living in the West Bank and Gaza may only exit Palestine through the Allenby border crossing into Jordan or the Rafah border crossing into Egypt. They must return by the same route.
\n\nIf you’re a British-Palestinian dual national entering Gaza against FCDO travel advice, check entry and exit procedures with the relevant authorities. There is a limit on the number of dual nationals permitted to enter and exit Gaza through Erez – this includes if you are entering for medical or humanitarian reasons. The Israeli government has the authority to make decisions on entry and exit permits through Erez.
\n\nCheck with your nearest Israeli embassy if you need pre-approval to travel to Israel. Dual nationals holding Iranian, Iraqi, Syrian and Lebanese citizenship have previously been affected. If you are not a citizen of any of these countries, but have close family ties, you should check with your nearest Israeli embassy before travel.
\n\nChildren with at least one Israeli parent (father or mother) are considered Israeli nationals. These children must enter and leave Israel on an Israeli passport.
\n\nDual nationals holding Iranian, Iraqi, Syrian and Lebanese citizenship have previously been heavily questioned, denied entry and deported. If a deportation flight is not available immediately, this can mean being detained until one is available, which can take a number of days. If you are a citizen of any of these countries, or have associations such as close family ties, the Israeli authorities advise you to check with your nearest Israeli embassy before travel to get pre-approval for entry.
\n\nChildren aged 17 and under travelling to Israel alone or with only one parent should carry a letter from their parents or guardians confirming parental consent, accommodation plans and contact details.
\n\nChildren exiting Israel alone should carry a locally-issued notarised letter as advised by external law firms.
\n\nFor children with at least one Israeli parent, read the advice for dual nationals above.
\n\nEgypt-Israel border crossing (opening times are subject to change):
\n\nIf you plan to cross the border from Israel into Egypt at Taba, we recommend you bring at least 170 US dollars (cash) per person, with some extra US dollars in cash to cover any further expenses. Since early March 2026, border crossing charges at Taba have been subject to increases at short notice.
\n\nIf travelling by car through the Taba Border Crossing you may also be required to pay 100 US dollars and additional amounts for parking.
\n\nPlease note that ATMs at the Taba Border Crossing are unreliable and frequently run out of cash. Travellers should obtain USD before travelling or in Eilat before arriving at the Crossing as all payments are required in cash.
\n\nBorder officials may ask travellers to remove hats, coats or other items of clothing, including religious clothing, as they pass through the Taba Border Crossing terminal.
\n\nLand crossings to Jordan may be restricted or close at short notice, including due to trade union strikes. More information is available on the Israel Airport Authority website.
\n\nJordan-Israel border crossings (opening times are subject to change):
\n\nAllenby/King Hussein Bridge
\nThe Northern (Jordan River/Sheikh Hussein) crossing
\nThe Southern (Yitzhak Rabin/Wadi Araba) crossing
\nAt least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Israel guide and TravelHealthPro’s Palestinian guide.
\n\nThere are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Israel and Palestine. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
\n\nThe Israeli Tax Authority provides information on taking money into or out of Israel.
\n\n","slug":"entry-requirements","title":"Entry requirements"},{"body":"This travel advice covers Israel and Palestine.
\nFollowing the conflict between Israel and Lebanese Hizballah (LH), a cessation of hostilities was announced on 16 April 2026. However, fighting continues and the dynamic nature of the conflict means the situation may change quickly.
\n\nThere remains a risk that hostilities could reignite, and with little warning. Check Home Front Command for the latest guidance. Restrictions may be put in place at short notice.
\n\nFollowing the conflict between Israel and Iran a ceasefire was agreed on 8 April 2026.
\n\nThere remains a risk that hostilities could reignite, and with little warning. Check Home Front Command for the latest guidance. Restrictions may be put in place at short notice.
\n\nFollowing the conflict between Israel and the Houthis (in Yemen), there continues to be a risk of missile and drone attacks throughout Israel. There is a risk of shrapnel from intercepted missiles falling across Israel and Palestine and possible disruption at Ben Gurion airport. On 22 and 24 September 2025, two drones fired by the Houthis fell in Eilat, injuring at least 20 people.
\n\nCheck Home Front Command for the latest guidance. Restrictions may be put in place at short notice.
\n\nOn 7 October 2023 there was a large-scale terrorist attack by Hamas in southern Israel. The frequency of attacks has significantly decreased but there is still a risk of rocket attacks throughout Israel.
\n\nThere is an increased risk of political tension which can cause demonstrations and clashes around anniversaries and significant events.
\n\nThere 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.
\n\nUK 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.
\n\nTerrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Israel and Palestine.
\nThere was a large-scale terrorist attack by Hamas into southern Israel on 7 October 2023 where over 1,200 people were killed. Hamas continue to launch rockets into Israel and the Israeli Defence Forces are conducting significant military activity in Gaza.
\n\nTerrorist attacks in Israel and Palestine are very likely to continue with an increased threat of attacks, including by individuals acting alone.
\n\nAny attacks could be indiscriminate, including places visited by foreign nationals such as:
\n\nAreas 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.
\n\nExamples of recent significant attacks include:
\n\nIn 2025:
\n\nIn 2024:
\n\nIn 2023:
\n\nTerrorist kidnap is a risk in Gaza and along the border with Egypt. On 7 October 2023, 251 people were kidnapped by Hamas into Gaza.
\n\nBritish 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.
\n\nThe 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.
\n\nThere was an ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas following the October 7 2023 Hamas terrorist attack which saw 251 people kidnapped into Gaza. On 10 October, Hamas and Israel agreed to a ceasefire.
\n\nThere remains a risk that hostilities could reignite, and with little warning. You should check Home Front Command for the latest guidance. Restrictions may be put in place at short notice. If travelling near military operation areas, follow all Israeli official instructions.
\n\nMilitary activity continues on the Gaza border. Keep up to date with the news while travelling.
\n\nKeep up to date with local travel advice on local news outlets and international outlets like the Access Coordination Unit.
\n\nRocket fire can affect most areas of Israel and the interception of missiles over Palestine may result in falling fragments or debris. 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, or in the West Bank outside of Israeli settlements. See Regional risks
\n\nIn Israel and the West Bank, there is a risk of violent incidents, including:
\n\nIncidents have occurred:
\n\nIncidents have involved protestors (Israelis and Palestinians), Israeli security forces and civilians, including Israeli settlers. Tourists or bystanders could be caught up in incidents.
\n\nLarge political demonstrations can:
\n\nYou should:
\n\nIf 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.
\n\nThere is increased risk of political tension, which can cause demonstrations and clashes, during events such as:
\n\nRisks increase when religious or national holidays overlap.
\n\nSome of these protests have led to violent clashes.
\n\nBe extremely cautious if visiting refugee camps. Hebron and Palestinian refugee camps have previously been the site of violent clashes.
\n\nThere have been recent violent incidents in settlements and settlement outposts, including near Beit El, Homesh, Shilo and Evyatar.
\n\nKeep your personal belongings in a safe place. Theft of passports, credit cards, and valuables from public beaches is common.
\n\nAlways carry ID, for example, a copy of the personal details and entry stamp pages of your passport.
\n\nIn Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza, clothing should cover your shoulders, upper arms, and legs above the knee.
\n\nLocals 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.
\n\nRamadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. If you are in Palestine during this time, do not:
\n\nChildren aged 7 and under do not fast during Ramadan.
\n\nAccess and prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan have seen restrictions and heightened security measures by Israeli authorities. This includes age and gender-based entry restrictions, and routine physical searches. There will be a heightened security environment and tense atmosphere during Ramadan in the Old City.
\n\nGet more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.
\n\nYou should also:
\n\nThere 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. A future peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians, or between Israel and Syria, could have consequences for property you buy in these settlements.
\n\nFCDO does not offer legal advice on or become involved in private property disputes.
\n\nIf you’re caught with drugs, you can expect a prison sentence.
\n\nBe sensitive about taking pictures of people in Muslim and Orthodox Jewish areas. Do not take photographs of military or police officers or installations.
\n\nIsraeli law does not criminalise same-sex sexual relations between consenting adults. In Palestine, same-sex sexual activity is legal in the West Bank but illegal in Gaza, where it carries a 10-year prison sentence.
\n\nAttitudes towards LGBT+ issues in some parts of Palestinian and Israeli society can be hostile.
\n\nIn more conservative Israeli areas in the West Bank, including in ultra-Orthodox communities, if you show affection in public, regardless of your gender or sexuality, you may receive negative attention.
\n\nIn 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.
\n\nTel 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.
\n\nSee more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
\n\nIf 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 Israeli Nature and Park Authority website.
\n\nIf you are planning to drive in Israel and Palestine, see information on driving abroad.
\n\nYou’ll need to have both the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.
\n\nYou must carry a green card to prove you have the minimum insurance cover.
\n\nThere are frequent road accidents, due to:
\n\nPolice operate radar speed traps on some roads and issue heavy fines for speeding.
\n\nAvoid 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.
\n\nIf you want to drive across into the West Bank, check your insurance will cover you 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.
\n\nIt is not safe to hitchhike in Israel and Palestine.
\n\nIf you’re travelling to the desert, you should:
\n\nFind out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
\n\nRoads can flood during extreme weather conditions. Flash flooding is a risk, particularly in the arid southern region of the Negev. Check risk areas locally.
\n\nEarthquakes are a risk in Israel and Palestine. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.
\n
This travel advice covers Israel and Palestine.
\nThis section has safety advice for regions of Israel and Palestine. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.
\n\nYou should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.
\n\nSince 7 October Israeli authorities have limited access to Jerusalem, and Israel in general, for residents of the West Bank, enforcing age and gender-specific restrictions for entry, particularly during Ramadan. While women aged 51 or over and men aged 56 or over with special permits have been granted entry for prayers, many potential worshippers have been turned away. Additionally, there have been routine instances of physical searches and detentions.
\n\nStreet protests and demonstrations can happen across Jerusalem, including East Jerusalem and the Old City. Check local news ahead of travel and follow instructions of local authorities. Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings.
\n\nThere are frequent demonstrations in many of the areas visited by tourists in the Old City and after Friday prayers. Areas include in and around:
\n\nSome protests have led to violent clashes. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and leave the area if there is evidence of tension or unrest, for example if the shops in the souks of the Old City suddenly begin to close their shutters. The entrances to the Old City may have additional checks, or may close.
\n\nThere have been a number of violent incidents on public transport and near public transport lines. Take extra care when using public transport in Jerusalem.
\n\nTake extra care when using public transport in Tel Aviv, in particular at transport hubs, and when using buses in the greater Tel Aviv area. Consider using other forms of transport.
\n\nThere have been large political demonstrations in Tel Aviv. Entry and exit to Ben Gurion airport has occasionally been impacted during demonstrations.
\n\nThere have been repeated instances of rocket fire from Gaza, which may reach well beyond the Gaza border area. Israel has often responded with air strikes into Gaza. You should:
\n\nFCDO advises against all travel to Gaza (including the waters off Gaza).
\n\nYou should not approach the perimeter fence surrounding the Gaza Strip.
\n\nFCDO cannot offer routine consular assistance in Gaza. If you travel to Gaza against our advice, review your security arrangements regularly.
\n\nThe border crossings with Israel (Erez) and Egypt (Rafah) may close with no notice. Check the status of the Rafah crossing into Egypt before you travel. Movement to the Rafah crossing and beyond is at your own risk. Currently, the Rafah border regularly closes with no warning and for long periods. The Erez border has been closed since October 2023.
\n\nThere will be no warning siren inside Gaza and there are no official air raid shelters. Take advice from locals about the safest place to shelter.
\n\nFCDO cannot help individuals applying for entry or exit permits for Gaza. See entry requirements.
\n\nFCDO recognises that major international organisations need to carry out humanitarian and reconstruction work and engage in independent reporting and verification of the situation in Gaza. Medical and other essential specialist staff should co-ordinate their entry to and exit from Gaza with those organisations.
\n\nDo not enter Gaza by sea, including via a flotilla delivering humanitarian aid. The Israeli Navy routinely patrols the area and will prevent any vessels attempting to breach the restrictions – see entry requirements. You will be detained and deported, and your electronic equipment is likely to be confiscated. FCDO does not believe that humanitarian supplies should be delivered in this way. If you send humanitarian assistance or other goods to Gaza, use established channels.
\n\nThere was an ongoing conflict between Israel and Lebanese Hizballah (LH). On 27 November 2024, LH and Israel agreed to a ceasefire, with a 60-day implementation period. Hostilities resumed in 2026 with a ceasefire agreed on 16 April.
\n\nThere remains a risk that hostilities could reignite, and with little warning. You should check Home Front Command for the latest guidance. Restrictions may be put in place at short notice. If travelling near military operation areas, follow all Israeli official instructions.
\n\nMilitary activity continues on the Israel-Lebanon border. Keep up to date with the news while travelling. See also section on Conflict with Lebanese Hizballah.
\n\nFCDO advises against all travel within 500m of the border with Syria (the ‘Alpha Line’).
\n\nThe situation is fragile, with military exchanges either side of the border. If you’re travelling in the area, be aware of your personal security, check local media and follow advice from local authorities.
\n\nFCDO advises against all travel within 500m of the Area of Separation in the occupied Golan Heights (the ‘Alpha line’). Do not attempt to enter the occupied Golan Heights through Syria.
\n\nFCDO advises against all travel to the Sheba’a Farms and Ghajjar.
\n\nFollowing the conflict between Israel and Lebanese Hizballah, a ceasefire was agreed on 27 November. There remains a risk that hostilities could reignite, and with little warning. Check Home Front Command for the latest guidance. In the occupied Golan Heights, restrictions may be put in place at short notice. Rocket attacks and sporadic gunfire occur without warning. There is also a risk of falling debris from Israeli and Syrian air defence systems.
\n\nLandmines have been planted across the occupied Golan Heights, including near to populated areas and roads. These areas are usually marked and often fenced off. Follow established roads and paths. FCDO long-standing advice has been to not hike off-trail. If you’re in the region, follow advice from local law enforcement.
\n\nThe security situation on the border with Egypt is volatile. Take extra care when using the Route 10 road, which runs along the Israeli border with Egypt. Route 10 is sometimes closed by the Israeli authorities. Consider using other routes.
\n\nThere are frequent clashes between Israeli Security Forces and Palestinians in these areas and violent incidents can occur without warning.
\n\nThere has been a heightened state of tension and violent clashes resulting in deaths in the West Bank since the outbreak of conflict in October 2023.
\n\nExpect road closures and numerous checkpoints across the West Bank.
\n\nThere are no warning sirens or official air raid shelters inside the West Bank, outside of Israeli settlements.
\n\nYou cannot travel into or out of the West Bank without passing through at least one Israeli military checkpoint. You need a passport and immigration slip to go through these checkpoints. Checkpoints may be closed during Jewish high holidays, Israeli public holidays and periods of increased instability restricting movement in and out of the West Bank. This does not normally affect foreign nationals, but would affect British-Palestinian dual nationals. Road closures can occur with little notice. Keep up to date with local travel advice through local media, and international information outlets like the UN’s Access Coordination Unit.
\n\nThe cities of Bethlehem, Ramallah and Jericho see large numbers of tourists including on organised tours, although tourist numbers have reduced since 7 October 2023. While there have been no recent reports of any serious incidents involving foreigners, you should take care when travelling anywhere in the West Bank.
\n\nThere is a risk of violent incidents and demonstrations in the West Bank (see Political situation for details). If you are in a location where an Israeli security operation or armed clashes are ongoing, stay inside and wait for the local authorities to confirm that the situation is calm before moving to a different location.
\n\nIsraelis living in the illegal settlements in the West Bank occasionally organise demonstrations which can turn violent. There are reports that settlers have threatened people travelling near to settlements and settlement outposts. Take care if you are near settlements, including those in the hills around Nablus, in the South Hebron hills and settlement outposts.
\n\nThere is a closed military zone in the H2 area of Hebron (around Ash-Shuhada Street and the Ibrahimi Mosque/Tomb of the Patriarchs), where there is a risk of a hostile reaction from members of extremist groups.
\n\nBe particularly cautious if considering a visit to:
\n\nAvoid these locations after dark.
\n\nIncidents have also occurred along Route 60 (especially junctions near Nablus), Route 443 and other West Bank arterial roads used by both Palestinians and Israelis. Use extreme caution on these routes, particularly at night, and leave if you see any signs of a disturbance.
\n\nWe advise you not to use taxis in the West Bank, because of their involvement in a significant number of accidents.
\n\nAvoid using buses in the West Bank and consider the difficulties and risks of travelling between Jerusalem and Ramallah via checkpoints, along Route 60 (especially the junctions near Nablus), Route 443 and other West Bank arterial roads used by both Palestinians and Israelis.
\n\n","slug":"regional-risks","title":"Regional risks"},{"body":"This travel advice covers Israel and Palestine.
\nBefore you travel check that:
\n\nThis is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
\n\nFor an ambulance dial:
\n\nContact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
\n\nAt least 8 weeks before your trip:
\n\nSee what health risks you’ll face in Israel and Palestine.
\n\nThe legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
\n\nRead best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nHealthcare in Israel and Palestine is not free and medical treatment can be expensive. Hospitals will insist on payment and may take legal action to stop you leaving until bills are paid. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment and repatriation.
\n\nFCDO has lists of medical providers in Israel and medical providers in Palestine where some staff will speak English.
\n\nThere is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Israel and Palestine.
\n\nRead FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
\n\n","slug":"health","title":"Health"},{"body":"This travel advice covers Israel and Palestine.
\nThe Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
\n\nAmbulance: 101
\n\nFire: 102
\n\nPolice: 100
\n\nContact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
\n\nFor refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
\n\nFind out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
\n\nFCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
\n\nSee how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
\n\nYou can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
\n\nTelephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
\n\n\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\n\n\nThe Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas in Israel and British companies operating overseas in Palestine on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
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