Palestine

Overall security situation

We advise do not travel to Gaza and the West Bank (excluding Jerusalem where we advise reconsider your need to travel), due to the volatile security situation, ongoing military activity, armed conflict, civil unrest and terrorism. 

The security situation in Palestine and the region is unpredictable. Regional tensions remain high and there continues to be a risk of further military conflict. 

Our operations from Ramallah have been suspended. Our ability to provide consular assistance in Palestine (excluding Jerusalem) is extremely limited. Australians in need of consular assistance in these locations should contact the Australian Embassy in Jordan. Australians in Jerusalem in need of consular assistance should contact the Australian Embassy in Tel Aviv.

Gaza conflict

Since October 2023, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has conducted major operations in and around Gaza. The risk of Israeli air strikes and land-based IDF operations remains. 

Our ability to provide consular assistance in Gaza is extremely limited. If you're in Gaza, be aware of your surroundings and review your personal security plans. Monitor media (including social media), UN and other authorities alerts, and your own organisation's security contacts for information about changing security conditions and alerts to seek shelter. 

If you're stuck in military action or civil unrest, stay in a safe place indoors. Monitor media and alerts (including social media) for updates.

Ordinarily, the Australian Government can't support individuals applying for entry or exit permits for Gaza. During the current crisis, our ability to support Australians and their families to leave is extremely limited. 

Waters off Gaza

Israel has a naval blockade in place. The Israeli Navy patrols territorial waters and the shared water border zone.

Don't join others seeking to break the naval blockade, including as part of a humanitarian flotilla to deliver aid to Gaza.

People have previously tried to break the naval blockade. This has led to injury, death, arrest and deportation of foreigners, including Australians.

If you are detained by Israeli authorities in relation to a blockade, contact the Australian Embassy in Tel Aviv or ask for it to be notified.

Military operations

During military operations, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) may declare an area a closed military zone.

If authorities find civilians in this zone, they might arrest, detain or deport them.

Where available, you should download the Home Front Command mobile app to receive advice of alerts and when it is safe to resume normal activities.

West Bank

We continue to advise do not travel to the West Bank (excluding Jerusalem) due to the volatile security situation, armed conflict, civil unrest and terrorism.

The security situation in the West Bank is unpredictable, with continuing tensions and violence between Israelis and Palestinians. There are armed conflicts in and around Jenin, Tulkarm and Tubas.

Israeli settler violence occurs in parts of the West Bank. Violence, including stone throwing and discharge of weapons, around Israeli settlements and military checkpoints is common.

Don't enter closed military zones, even where these have been in place for a long time, such as the old city of Hebron.

Israeli authorities may open temporary additional checkpoints in the West Bank or close crossings to the West Bank on local holidays or due to security incidents.

Israeli security/military operations occur in the West Bank. There's been an increase in Israeli security operations in the northern West Bank since January 2025, including intensive operations in refugee camps. If you're in the West Bank during Israeli military action, stay in a safe place indoors, away from windows. Monitor the media for information. Where applicable, follow guidance of the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority.

Authorities impose strict security measures after terrorist attacks. These may severely affect the movement of Palestinians, including Australian dual nationals.

Demonstrations and protests

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. Don't go near demonstrations or large gatherings.

Check the media and other sources for information about planned and possible unrest.

Demonstrations could happen anywhere. They're most likely in and around checkpoints, and in and around the Old City in Jerusalem.

Violence can happen at checkpoints, and there can be few options to leave the area.

Avoid traffic blockages at checkpoints.

Increased tensions can occur around religious and commemoration events and following political developments, particularly in and around the Old City in Jerusalem. Tensions have resulted in demonstrations and violence in some cities.

International events, military and security operations, and political developments may lead to protests and demonstrations, which can be unpredictable and may turn violent. Be alert, avoid demonstrations and monitor local media (including social media). Where applicable, follow guidance of the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority.

Keeping safe during unrest

To stay safe during civil unrest, avoid demonstrations, political rallies and large public gatherings.

Check the news and other sources for information on unrest or strikes. Plan your activities to stay away from those areas.

Be extra careful during Jewish and Muslim religious holidays, including Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Pesach and Ramadan.

Stay away from traffic congestion at checkpoints.

Know the emergency procedures in each place you stay. Know what to do when air raid sirens sound and, where applicable, where the closest emergency shelters are.

Unless told otherwise, stay indoors and monitor the media. Where applicable, follow guidance of the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority.

Be prepared to change your travel plans.

If civil unrest affects transport services, contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Local and international political developments and events may lead to terrorist attacks.

Attacks could happen anywhere, at any time, including by lone actors.

Terrorists have attacked buses, public transport hubs and tourist areas in Jerusalem. Attacks have included shootings, stabbings, vehicle ramming and bombings. 

Be alert to possible threats, especially:

• at tourist locations, religious sites and crowded public places
• near checkpoints

Australian Government officials are advised only to use public transport services in the West Bank (excluding Jerusalem). This is because of safety and security concerns and doesn't apply to taxis.

When planning your activities, reconsider going to places known to be terrorist targets. Consider the level of security provided.

Take care when travelling to a region where there are terrorists or somewhere that terrorists could target. Have an exit plan in case there's a security incident.

To stay safe:

• consider avoiding public transport other than taxis
• report any suspicious activity or items in the West Bank to the police
• regularly check local and international media for news about any new or emerging threats
• take official warnings seriously

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

Foreigners have been kidnapped in Palestine.

Always be alert to your personal security and surroundings.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

• Kidnapping

Violent crime, including Israeli settler violence, occurs in the West Bank.

Purse snatching, pickpocketing and petty theft can happen.

Drink spiking

Drink spiking can happen anywhere. Be alert to the potential risks, and don't leave food or drinks unattended. Pay attention when your drinks are being mixed. If you feel any symptoms, tell your friends immediately. Ask someone you trust and know well to take you to a safe place. If a friend shows any of these symptoms, don't leave them alone. You may need to seek medical care.

Methanol poisoning

Locals and foreigners, including Australians, have died or become seriously ill from poisoned drinks overseas. Methanol is highly toxic. As little as one shot can be fatal. Methanol can be added or accidently created during poor quality alcohol distillation and production. Protect yourself by making smart drink choices. Choose branded beers, ciders, wines and premixed cocktails in sealed bottles and cans. Get urgent medical help if you suspect you’ve been poisoned.

More information:

• Partying safely while overseas

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

The West Bank and Gaza are in an active earthquake zone.

Flash floods can happen in the Hebron/Judean Hills in the winter months from November to March.

Sandstorms, dust storms and bushfires happen during the warmer months.

If there's a natural disaster or severe weather:

• secure your passport in a safe location
• stay in contact with friends and family
• monitor local media and the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

If, despite our advice to reconsider your need to travel to Jerusalem and do not to travel to the rest of the West Bank and Gaza, you travel to those locations, get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Some travel insurance providers will not insure you for ‘do not travel’ destinations.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you're going to high-risk areas, you'll probably need a specialised insurance policy. Check your insurance policy before you travel to high-risk areas in Palestine. 

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and medical care are covered by your policy
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Israel (if transiting through), Gaza and the West Bank. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

Much of Palestine, particularly Gaza and parts of the West Bank, is facing a severe public health crisis, with multiple infectious disease outbreaks exacerbated by ongoing military activity, displacement, and the collapse of healthcare infrastructure. Key infectious diseases in Gaza and the West Bank include:

• diarrheal diseases
• hepatitis and jaundice
• respiratory infections
• skin infections and scabies
• malnutrition-related illnesses
• antimicrobial resistance

Other Infectious diseases

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases can occur. These include:

• brucellosis
• leptospirosis
• leishmaniasis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Insect-borne diseases

Cases of  West Nile virus (WNV) cases are reported throughout much of Palestine. There's no vaccine to prevent it.

To protect yourself against illness:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Polio

Polio is a risk in Palestine. Before you travel, ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date, including booster doses.

More information:

• Polio

Measles

Measles can occur routinely in Palestine. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

More information:

• Measles immunisation service

Medical facilities and services in the West Bank (excluding Jerusalem), may not be available and are well below Australian standards. If you become seriously ill or injured in Palestine, you may need to be evacuated. Where medical evacuation is possible, it can be very expensive. Make sure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation. 

Gaza may not have any functioning medical facilities available. Medical evacuations from Gaza require a number of approvals which may take months to receive.

The standard of medical facilities is reasonable in Jerusalem. Doctors may require up-front payment before they will treat you. Costs can be high.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences include jail terms of up to 20 years and large fines.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

You must always carry your passport, visa or entry permit as proof of identity.

It's illegal to photograph police, the military, buildings or places considered 'security sensitive'. This includes military installations and some government offices. If in doubt, get local advice.

The import and use of religious material is strictly controlled. If authorities find this material, they may confiscate it.

Under Palestinian law, which is enforced in the West Bank (excluding Jerusalem), authorities may enforce the death penalty for treason, helping an enemy and deliberate killing.

Islamic (Sharia) law applies in Gaza. The application of laws and legal processes can't be guaranteed. Drinking alcohol and same sex acts were prohibited. Unmarried or same sex couples are not allowed to live together in Palestine (excluding Jerusalem) and aren't allowed to share hotel accommodation either.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

In most cases, to enter Palestine, you will need to travel via Israel. Israel doesn't recognise dual nationality. Israeli citizens must enter and leave on an Israeli passport.

Under Israeli law, you're considered Israeli if at least one of your parents is Israeli.

Australians who currently hold, or used to hold a Palestinian ID card, are considered Palestinian nationals while in Palestine or Israel.

If you're considered Palestinian, you may need to get a Palestinian travel document. See our Israel travel advice for details about entry and exit requirements.

Israeli law limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Get to know local and religious customs. Take care not to offend.

In Palestine, being affectionate in public is likely to cause offence.

Dress standards

Conservative standards of dress and behaviour apply at holy sites in Jerusalem, and throughout much of the West Bank and Gaza. 

Ask permission before taking photos of people.

Ramadan

Respect religious and cultural customs and laws during Ramadan. Avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public or in front of people who are fasting.

LGBTQIA+ information

Same-sex couples are not allowed to live together in Palestine (excluding Jerusalem) and aren't allowed to share hotel accommodation either.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

West Bank

Multiple checkpoints regulate passage between the West Bank (excluding Jerusalem) and Israel. Access arrangements can change without notice.

Land border crossings to Jordan may open and close at short notice. Before you travel, check Jordanian Border Crossings for regular opening times and also check the latest public information from local authorities in Israel and Jordan to make sure border crossings are open.

The Allenby Bridge/King Hussein crossing  facilitates road passage from the West Bank to Jordan. You'll need to pass through Palestinian as well as Israeli immigration processes and will need a visa to enter Jordan. See our travel advice for Jordan. Israeli citizens are not permitted to use this crossing (see our travel advice for Israel). 

Transport routes may be disrupted. Roads, bridges and facilities may be crowded, exposed to military action or damaged. Use your judgement to decide the best time and safest means of exit.

Plan for delays at land border crossings. Expect disruption to travel and changes at short notice. Make sure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication.

Gaza

The security situation in Gaza is unpredictable and dangerous.

Exiting Gaza is extremely difficult.

The ability of the Australian Government to help is extremely limited.

Erez crossing

Israeli authorities control the Erez crossing into northern Gaza from Israel. The crossing has been closed since October 2023.

Rafah crossing

The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt has been closed for a significant period due to the Gaza conflict and can be subject to attacks, including air strikes. The Rafah crossing may continue to remain closed or have highly restricted access for long periods. This can change at short notice. 

More information:

• Travel advice for Israel
• Travel advice for Jordan
• Travel advice for Egypt

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

In most cases, entry to Palestine requires passage through Israeli controlled land or air ports of entry. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. 

More information:

• Travel advice for Israel

For details about visas, security checks, currency, customs and quarantine regulations:

• check the Israel Government Portal
• contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Israel
• see the Embassy of Israel in Australia webpage

Entry to the West Bank

Israel introduced requirements for foreign nationals entering and residing in the West Bank in October 2022. Further information and contact details for enquiries can be found on the Israeli Government website.

There are no direct flights to the West Bank or Gaza. If entering via Israel, visitors should check our travel advice for Israel.

Israeli authorities can subject you to a security and police record check if you're entering Israel, including en route to Palestine.  

Authorities may refuse you entry or exit without a reason.

Security officials may question you at length. They may also conduct an intensive search of your bags and person when you arrive and depart.

If you're travelling to protest against Israeli policies, authorities may refuse you entry. You'll be returned to the country where you boarded, including if you've arrived by boat.

Authorities can deny you entry if you have an association with, or belong to, an organisation that has called for a boycott of Israel or Israeli settlements.

We can't intervene if you don't meet entry or exit requirements.

Entry card

You'll get an entry card instead of an entry stamp on arrival in Israel.

Keep this card with your passport until you leave. The card is evidence of your legal entry into Israel. Authorities may ask for it during your stay, including at checkpoints in the West Bank.

Travel restrictions

Israeli travel restrictions may apply to people seeking to enter Palestine. There's no clear information about who may be restricted.

Israeli airport officials may ask you to sign a form that stops you entering the West Bank from Israel.

In these situations, the Australian Embassy in Tel Aviv has limited ability to step in.

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

The Israeli Shekel (ILS) is used in Palestine.

You can change Australian dollars to shekels in major centres.

ATMs are available in the West Bank but functionality can at times be limited.

When deciding on travel in Palestine, consider the general security situation.

Also consider specific risks to your safety and security in different places.

Road travel

Security checkpoints may be set up or closed at any time. This often happens without warning.

You could face delays or trouble passing through checkpoints.

GPS signals may be blocked in parts of Palestine, disrupting navigational apps.

More information:

• Land border crossings (United Nations)

Driving

Driving can be dangerous.

Hazards include:

• aggressive drivers who ignore road rules
• drivers driving while distracted
• poor road conditions in some parts of the country

Road accidents occur often.

Israeli car insurance does not usually cover travel into the West Bank (excluding Jerusalem). This includes Bethlehem, Jericho and Ramallah.

Separate insurance should be arranged for travel to these places.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Taxis

Taxi services are available in the West Bank. Quality varies.

Public transport

Take care when using public transport.

Sea travel

Don't travel by sea to the coast of Gaza.

Air travel

There are no functional airports in Palestine.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on where you're located and what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services 

Call 102.

Medical emergencies 

Call 101.

Police

For criminal issues, call 100.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurance provider should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact:

Australian Embassy, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

41 Kayed Al Armouti Street
Abdoun
Amman

Postal address:
PO Box 35201
Amman 11180

Phone: +962 6580 7000
Website: jordan.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AusEmbJO
X: AusAmbJo

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Australian Representative Office, Ramallah

**Our operations in Ramallah have been suspended.**

Website: ramallah.mission.gov.au

Australian Embassy, Tel Aviv

Level 28
Discount Bank Tower
23 Yehuda Halevi Street (corner Herzl Street)
Tel Aviv 65136, Israel

Phone: +972 3 693 5000
Website: israel.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in Israel
X: AusAmbIsrael

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia