GOV.UK
Foreign travel advice The Occupied Palestinian Territories
Terrorism
This travel advice covers Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories
There is a high threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreigners, and on public transport.
Heightened tensions, brought about by rocket attacks from Gaza into Israel and Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, increase the risk of retaliatory terrorist attacks in Israel. British nationals are encouraged to remain vigilant at all times.
In December 2013 a device exploded on a bus in Bat Yam, south of Tel Aviv. A police officer was lightly wounded. Police have confirmed that this was an attempted terrorist attack and are urging the public to be extra vigilant. The last such incident was in November 2012.
There is a threat of rockets being fired into Israeli territory by extremists in the Gaza Strip and Egypt and a threat of rocket attacks, artillery or small arms fire along the border areas with Lebanon and Syria.
Be vigilant, monitor media reports and keep up to date with travel advice. Make sure you are familiar with contact details for the emergency services (in Israel - dial 100; in the West Bank and Gaza - dial 101).
There is considered to be a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals, from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria. You should be vigilant at this time.
Kidnap
There is a risk of kidnap in Gaza and along the border with Egypt. The long-standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking.