2005 Travel Warnings

Public Announcement

August 12, 2005

This Public Announcement is being issued to alert Americans to ongoing security concerns in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza related to the Israeli disengagement from settlements in Gaza and parts of the northern West Bank, which will begin on August 15, 2005. This Public Announcement supplements the Travel Warning for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza dated June 20, 2005, and expires on October 15, 2005.

During the Israeli disengagement, police and security authorities in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza will significantly increase their presence to help secure the affected areas. Persons opposed to disengagement may engage in protest actions that could spark violence. Towns bordering the affected areas could also become embroiled in protest activity. Holy sites in Jerusalem could become the scene of protests, as they have in the past. The disengagement is expected to last several weeks.

U.S. citizens are advised to avoid crowds, maintain a high level of vigilance, take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness, and exercise caution in public places or while using public transportation.