2004 Travel Warnings

Updated Security Alert

November 11, 2004

The U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv and the American Consulate General in Jerusalem are jointly issuing this Security Alert to all American citizens in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. The recent demise of Yasser Arafat may create a climate ripe for unstable conditions. During the 40-day traditional period of mourning, large crowds may gather for prayers on the Haram al Sharif in the Old City of Jerusalem as well as at local mosques throughout Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. There is already an increase in the numbers of worshippers at these sites due to the month of Ramadan. Because of the significance of this event, the possibility also exists for mass demonstrations and other expressions of unrest. Over the weeks following this event, as the Palestinian Authority seeks to fill the void left by Mr. Arafat's demise, the possibility of ongoing demonstrations and unrest will continue to exist.

As always, but particularly during this period, U.S. citizens are urged to avoid large crowds, especially in the area in and around the Haram al Sharif and other mosques. In addition, American citizens are cautioned to be alert to the possibility of heightened threats in the area of restaurants, businesses, and other places associated with U.S. interests and/or located near U.S. official buildings such as the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv and the American Consulate General in Jerusalem. The U.S. Department of State has already noted conditions of increasing lawlessness in the northern region of the West Bank, and wishes to re-emphasize the cautions contained in the current travel warning for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza, the Middle East and North Africa Public Announcement and the Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, all of which may be found at http://travel.state.gov.

Americans currently in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza are urged to review their own security posture and maintain a low profile. Americans are urged to depart Gaza immediately. Those in the West Bank should consider moving to a safer location. As always, U.S. citizens who require after hours assistance may telephone the Consulate General in Jerusalem at (972)(2) 622-7250, or the Embassy in Tel Aviv at (972)(3) 519-7551.