Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Jerusalem (May 16, 2023)
In advance of Flag Day events in Jerusalem on May 18, the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem reminds U.S. citizens of the continued need for caution and increased personal security awareness due to the possibility of clashes between participants, counterdemonstrators, and/or police during the event. Security incidents often take place without any warning, and the security environment is complex and can change quickly depending on the political situation and recent events.
U.S. citizens can expect heavy police presence along the march route and the possibility of closing surrounding roads and limiting access to certain areas is anticipated. U.S. citizens should expect impromptu checkpoints, screening areas and roving police patrols.
In response to security incidents and with little to no advance notice, the U.S. Embassy may further restrict or prohibit U.S. government employees and their family members from traveling to certain areas of Israel and the West Bank. This includes the Old City of Jerusalem.
U.S. citizens are encouraged to consult the current Travel Advisory and Country Information for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza, which advise U.S. citizens to be aware of the continuing risks of travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza due to the security situation and heightened tensions and warns against travel to Gaza.
U.S. citizens should take this into consideration when planning their own activities.
The Embassy will continue to review the security situation and will provide additional information as needed.
Actions to Take:
- Refer to our website for the latest Security and Health Alerts: https://il.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/and https://il.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/security-and-travel-information/.
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings
- Avoid all areas where there is a heavy police presence
- Monitor local media
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Enroll in the Department of Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates and makes it easier for the U.S. Embassy to contact you in an emergency.
- Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Advisories (including the Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza) and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Information for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. For additional information, refer to “Traveler’s Checklist” on the State Department’s website.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Jerusalem
14 David Flusser St.
Jerusalem
Online ACS Inquiry System: click here
Phone: +972-2-630-4000
Website: https://il.usembassy.gov/
U.S. Embassy Branch Office Tel Aviv
71 HaYarkon St.
Tel Aviv
Routine: click here
Online ACS Inquiry System: click here
Phone: +972-3-519-7575
Website: https://il.usembassy.gov/
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747or 202-501-4444
Israel, West Bank, and Gaza Country Information
Israel, West Bank, and Gaza Travel Advisory
