By Mohammed Jinadu
The cross-border attacks and massacres of civilians by the Palestinian militant group Hamas have resulted in a declaration of war by the state of Israel and major disruptions in travel and tourism.
A surprise attack on Oct. 7, which included ground assaults on communities in the southern part of the country close to Hamas-run Gaza as well as rocket attacks reaching as far north as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, with militants launching thousands of rockets at both military and civilian targets. Hamas gunmen attacked Israeli soldiers and civilians alike, including killing hundreds of people attending an outdoor music festival and the kidnapping of others.
American citizens were among the victims of the attacks, with the overall death toll already topping 1,000 people in Israel and Gaza.
But prior to the October attacks, Americans were warned not to travel to Gaza and cautioned about the extensive dangers facing visitors to Israel.
The U.S. State Department swiftly responded by releasing travel warnings to Israel’s West Bank, and Gaza on Oct. 9, noting: “The situation in Israel remains dynamic; mortar and rocket fire may take place without warning. Individuals should follow the instructions of security and emergency response officials.”
“Terrorist groups, lone-wolf terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza,” according to the State Department’s advisory last updated Oct. 3. “Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Violence can occur in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza without warning. There has been a marked increase in demonstrations throughout Israel, some with little or no warning.”
In an Oct. 8 alert, Tel Aviv travel company Tourist Israel advised travelers already in the country that the safest place to be is in their hotel or other accommodations. “Please stay inside, and if you hear a siren, go to your nearest shelter,” according to the company’s website.
Nonetheless, Tourist Israel maintained that “Ultimately, it is safe to travel in Israel, though nervous travelers are encouraged to consider joining a [group],” adding: “The situation in the south of the country doesn’t affect tourists who are traveling in most areas of Israel. That being said, you should always be sure to check and adhere to your country’s travel advisories.
Ben Gurion International Airport remains open, but American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines have all suspended their flights to Tel Aviv. Some international carriers, like British Airways and Emirates, have continued to fly to Israel.
