Israel Warns Travelers Abroad of Heightened Threat on October 7 Anniversary

The National Security Council says Iran and its proxies see the anniversary as a milestone and warns of attempted attacks against Israelis and Jews overseas. Jordan, Egypt including Sinai, Qatar and Somaliland are on the avoid list.

Israel's National Security Council has warned Israelis abroad to exercise heightened vigilance around October 7, citing an increased risk of attempted attacks against Israelis and Jews overseas as well as demonstrations and disturbances. The warning was issued on October 6, the eve of the third anniversary of the Hamas massacre.

Why the date

According to the council, Iran and its proxies regard the anniversary as a significant milestone and may use it as an occasion for hostile activity against Israeli and Jewish targets abroad. Anti Israel demonstrations are expected in many cities. The council describes a heightened risk; it has not identified a specific plot or target.

Where not to go

The council asks Israelis to avoid destinations under a Level 4 travel warning: Jordan, Egypt including the Sinai Peninsula, Qatar and Somaliland. Somaliland is listed separately from Somalia.

In Level 3 destinations, travelers are advised to reduce the use of Hebrew in crowded places and to stay away from demonstrations and large gatherings.

How to behave

The guidance for all destinations is familiar from previous alerts: avoid posting travel plans and locations on social media, do not display Israeli or Jewish symbols where they could draw attention, stay alert in crowded public spaces, and keep away from protests. Israelis who encounter trouble should contact the local Israeli embassy or consulate and, in an emergency, the local police first.

Two years of warnings

Since October 7, 2023 the council has issued a series of similar advisories, and the threat has been real: Iranian directed plots against Israelis and Jewish targets have been uncovered in Europe and elsewhere, synagogues and Jewish schools have been attacked, and the anniversary itself was marked last year by an attack on a synagogue in Manchester. The council's message is that the danger has not passed and that the anniversary concentrates it.

Travelers can check the current level for any destination on the National Security Council's website before departure.