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2008 Warden Messages

Warden Message -- Protests Expected in Old City This Friday, Consulate Staff Advised to Avoid Area

March 6, 2008

The Israeli National Police are reporting the possibility of a large protest on and near the Haram Al-Sharif /Temple Mount and the Old City this Friday, March 7, 2008 in protest of the ongoing situation in Gaza. There is expected to be a heavy police presence in and around the Old City which may spark disturbances at entry points including Damascus, Herod’s and Lion’s Gates. Protests sometimes lead to violent clashes, and the Consulate General is recommending its employees avoid the area in and around the Old City all day.

American citizens are reminded to practice vigilant security awareness. This includes maintaining a low profile, varying daily schedules and routines, avoiding crowds and demonstrations and remaining alert for people and objects that appear suspicious or out of place. While there is no specific information indicating a threat to Americans or American interests, there is the potential for heightened tensions. Random checkpoints and closures of crossings from the West Bank into Israel can be expected. In addition, planned and spontaneous demonstrations may occur in Jerusalem, in the vicinity of the Old City and outlying areas.

American citizens are reminded of the current Travel Warning for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza available at http://travel.state.gov/. The Department of State continues to urge U.S. citizens to carefully consider the risks of travel to Israel, to defer unnecessary travel to the West Bank and to avoid all travel to Gaza.

Americans in Jerusalem, Gaza or the West Bank are strongly encouraged to register with the Consular Section of the U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov/ or to contact us by phone at (972) (2) 622-7207 during business hours. U.S. citizens who require emergency services may telephone the Consulate General in Jerusalem at (972) (2) 622-7250.

For the latest security information, Americans should regularly monitor the Department's web site at http://travel.state.gov/, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays.)