Israel

Overall security situation

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

The security situation could deteriorate at short notice. Flight cancellations and disruptions could occur with little or no notice, including due to airport and airspace closures. 

We continue to advise do not travel to areas near the borders with Gaza (Palestine) or Lebanon.

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 can arrest, detain or deport them.

In Israel, local city government websites have lists of public bomb shelters and other emergency information.

The IDF Home Front Command is responsible for managing emergencies, including planning and advising on how to deal with rocket attacks. In an emergency, a message will be sent to all local mobile phones in the area with details of the event and safety instructions. You should download the Home Front Command mobile app to receive advice of alerts and when it is safe to resume normal activities. You can also contact the Home Front Command on 104 (the hotline has English-speaking operators, option 5). Authorities may also establish a National Emergency Portal website for specific events.

Cross-border political tensions and unrest create security risks for regions of Israel close to its borders with Egypt, Lebanon, Palestine and Syria.

Israel and the Palestinian border

The status of Jerusalem and borders are final status issues which remain subject to negotiations. Without prejudging the outcome of those negotiations, this travel advice covers Jerusalem, which is also covered in the Palestine travel advice. 

The security situation is unpredictable, with continuing tensions and violence between Israelis and Palestinians.

Gaza conflict

Since October 2023, the IDF has conducted major operations, including in and around Gaza. The risk of Israeli air strikes and land-based IDF operations remains, as does the threat of civil unrest, shooting, rocket and drone attacks. Rockets can land in both Gaza and Israel.

Waters off Gaza 

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

We advise Australians to not participate in any humanitarian flotilla to deliver aid to Gaza. Don't join others seeking to break the naval blockade.

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

More information:

• Travel advice for Palestine

Israel and Lebanon border

We continue to advise do not travel to border areas with Lebanon. Authorities are monitoring security on Israel's northern border. Some residents have been advised to evacuate by local authorities.

There's an ongoing threat of rocket attacks, infiltration attempts, revenge fire and other activity along the border between Israel and Lebanon. This area is known as the 'Blue Line'.

There's a significant military presence in the area. The security situation could get worse without notice.

Tensions have remained high between Hezbollah and Israel since the ceasefire of November 2024, and the security situation remains volatile and unpredictable. Further conflict is possible. A resumption of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah would significantly increase risks to your safety and security.

More information:

• Travel advice for Lebanon

Israel and Egypt border

There have been security incidents in the southern city of Eilat and the surrounding area near the Gulf of Aqaba. This includes the border crossing with Egypt near Eilat. There have been deaths and injuries.

More information:

• Travel advice for Egypt

Israel and Syria border

We continue to advise against travel to border areas with Syria. Clashes between armed militant groups and the IDF have occurred along the Israeli-Syrian border, including rockets being fired towards Israeli-controlled territory. The risk of violence in this area remains high, and attacks could occur with little or no warning. Kidnapping has been known to happen near the border.

Parts of Route 98 have been closed in the past due to fighting on the Syrian side of the border.

The situation remains tense, and further violence is possible. We recommend avoiding all parts of the Golan Heights to the east of Route 98.

More information:

• Travel advice for Syria

Public protests and events that gather large crowds can sometimes become violent. Check the media and other sources for information about planned and potential demonstrations. 

Demonstrations can occur anywhere, especially near checkpoints to and from the West Bank and the Old City of Jerusalem. Violence can break out at checkpoints, and there may be limited options for leaving the area. Avoid traffic blockages at these checkpoints.  

There are regular attacks on vehicles during the Sabbath, particularly in and around ultra-Orthodox neighbourhoods (see 'Local Laws'). Tensions can increase around religious and commemorative events and following political developments, especially in and around the Old City of Jerusalem. These tensions have resulted in demonstrations and violence in some cities. 

To stay safe during unrest, avoid demonstrations, political rallies, and large public gatherings. Check local media for information on unrest or strikes, and plan your activities to avoid these areas. Be especially cautious during Jewish and Muslim religious holidays, including Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Pesach, and Ramadan. 

Stay away from traffic congestion at checkpoints, and familiarise yourself with the emergency procedures in each location where you stay. Know what to do when air raid sirens sound and where to locate the nearest emergency shelters. 

If you find yourself caught in military action or civil unrest, follow the advice of local authorities. Unless instructed otherwise, stay indoors and monitor the media. Be prepared to change your travel plans as necessary. If civil unrest affects transportation services, contact your airline, travel agent, or insurance provider for assistance.

Israel continues to be a target of terrorist attacks.

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. These include Herzliya, Jaffa and Tel Aviv. 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 police checkpoints
• in regions bordering Palestine, Egypt, Syria and Lebanon

Australian Government officials are advised only to use public transport services in Israel which include security screening of passengers and luggage. This is because of safety and security concerns and doesn't apply to taxis.

Militant and terror groups operate in regions of Palestine, Egypt, Syria and Lebanon that are close to Israel, making travel close to borders with those regions dangerous.

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 places 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 to the police
• regularly check local and international media for news about any new or emerging threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

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

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk.

Foreigners have been kidnapped in Israel. Tourists, aid workers and journalists may be seen as legitimate targets. Always be alert to your personal security and surroundings, particularly in the Gaza area and the border with Egypt.

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations is limited.

You are responsible for your own safety. To reduce the risk of kidnapping:

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings – avoid distractions. Be prepared to stop or take evasive action if you sense danger
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk. It is essential to have a contingency plan
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
• vary your movements so you don’t set predictable patterns
• keep a low profile – including online. Drawing attention to yourself in high-risk areas may signal to criminals that you have something worth taking
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone. There is safety in numbers, and you should try to travel with someone else, especially at night
• notify family or friends of planned travel; share your location and emergency contacts that they can rely on if something happens
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone. Criminals have been known to search social media for victims
• if you are confronted by armed criminals, it is best to surrender and cooperate – resistance tends to make the situation worse

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Ransom payments to terrorist groups are likely to contravene Australian counter-terrorism financing laws. 

More information:

• Kidnapping
• Scams that affect travellers
• Reducing the risk of piracy

Violent crime, other than terrorism and politically motivated violence, is rare.

Purse snatching, pickpocketing and petty theft can happen.

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

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 accidentally 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

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities.

If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:

• check if it's covered by your travel insurance policy
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Israel is in an active earthquake zone.

Flash floods can happen in the Negev desert 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
• follow the advice of local authorities

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Healthcare in Israel is not free.

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 Israel. 

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.

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. 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

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 Israel. 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 Israel. Before you travel, ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date, including booster doses.

More information:

• Polio (World Health Organisation)

Measles

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

More information:

• Measles immunisation service (Department of Health and Aged Care)

The standard of medical facilities is reasonable in Israel. 

If you become seriously ill or injured and need to be evacuated, costs can be very expensive.

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.

Drugs

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

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

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.

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

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.

Men and women may need to do military service. To check, consult the nearest embassy or consulate of Israel before you travel.

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

More information:

• Dual nationals
• Embassy of Israel in Australia

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

Public displays of affection aren't appropriate at religious sites in Israel. 

Observe local standards of behaviour when visiting Orthodox Jewish neighbourhoods.

Dress standards

Conservative standards of dress and behaviour apply at holy sites and Muslim or Orthodox Jewish areas.

Be respectful when photographing people in Muslim and Orthodox Jewish areas. Ask permission before taking photos of people.

Shabbat

The Jewish Shabbat or Sabbath happens from sunset Friday until sunset Saturday. It's closely observed in Orthodox Jewish areas in Israel.

During this time of rest in Orthodox neighbourhoods, driving and using electricity is restricted. Using a mobile phone or camera on the Sabbath is likely to offend.

Public access to these neighbourhoods is usually restricted on the Sabbath. Don't drive in these areas.

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 relationships are legal, but some locals have conservative attitudes towards them. Open displays of affection could offend locals, particularly in rural areas.

Take care not to offend.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Land border crossings

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.

There are 2 land border crossings between Israel and Jordan: Sheikh Hussein/Jordan River near Irbid and Wadi Araba near Aqaba. Additionally, one land border crossing from Israel to Jordan goes through Palestine (the West Bank): Allenby Bridge/King Hussein near Amman. You'll need a visa to enter Jordan. See our Jordan Travel Advice.

Israeli authorities may close crossings to the West Bank or impose strict security measures on local holidays or due to security incidents, including after terrorist attacks. 

Land border crossing entering or exiting Gaza (Palestine) is extremely difficult. Israeli authorities control the Erez crossing into northern Gaza from Israel. The crossing has been closed since October 2023. See our Palestine Travel Advice.

The land border crossing between Israel and Egypt: Taba border crossing (Menachem Begin Crossing) is open but may close without notice and for an unknown period of time. To avoid long wait times at the border, you should pay for the Israeli crossing fee online before you arrive. You'll need to pay for a tourist visa and a land border entry fee for entry to Egypt. For the visa, you must have a non-Egyptian credit card or US dollars in cash. For the land border entry fee (payable in Egyptian pounds) an ATM is available in the terminal. See our Egypt Travel Advice.

Transport routes may be disrupted. Roads may be crowded and exposed to military action or have damage, including to bridges and facilities. 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.

More information:

• Travel advice for Jordan
• Travel advice for Egypt
• Travel advice for Palestine

Visas

All foreigners visiting Israel, including Australians, must obtain either an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA-IL) or a visa before arriving in Israel.

If you plan to visit Israel for less than 90 days, you may be eligible for the ETA-IL. Otherwise, you will need to get a visa before you travel.

ETA-ILs are valid for 2 years or until your current passport expires, whichever comes first. This means that if you receive an ETA-IL approval to travel, you should not have to reapply during the approval period.

To check your eligibility and to apply for the ETA-IL, visit the ETA-IL website.

Failing to obtain an entry permit may result in a refusal of entry by Israeli border authorities.

The Australian Government can't intervene on your behalf, and our ability to provide consular assistance in these circumstances may be limited.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. For details about visas, security checks, currency, customs and quarantine regulations:

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

Israeli authorities can subject you to a security and police record check if you're entering Israel.

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 arrive by boat.

Authorities can deny you entry if you have 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.

If you plan to travel to other countries after Israel, read the travel advice for each country. Some countries may refuse you entry if:

• your passport shows you have travelled to Israel
• your luggage or possessions show you've been to Israel

Travel restrictions may apply to some visitors in Israel. There's no clear information about who may be restricted.

Airport officials may ask you to sign a form that stops you entering Palestine.

In these situations, the Australian Embassy 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

Israel's currency is the Israeli Shekel (ILS). 

You can change Australian dollars to shekels in major centres.

ATMs are widely available.

When arriving or leaving Israel, you must declare amounts of $US10,000 or more, or the equivalent in another currency. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

If you don't declare your currency on entry or exit from Israel, authorities could arrest or fine you.

When deciding on travel around Israel consider the general security situation.

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

Driving permit

You can drive in Israel for up to one year with a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted).

Road travel

Land border crossings may be closed with short notice and for an unknown period. Before travel, check Israeli government websites and the website of the country you're travelling to determine if border crossings are open.

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

You could face delays or trouble passing through checkpoints.

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

More information:

• Land border crossings (United Nations)

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 Palestine including Bethlehem, Jericho and Ramallah.

Separate insurance can be arranged for travel to these places.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you when travelling by motorbike.

Only ride a motorcycle if you're:

• properly licensed
• familiar and comfortable with local driving conditions

By law, you and your passenger must wear a helmet when riding a motorbike.

Taxis

Taxis are generally safe and reliable in Israel.

Public transport

Take care when using public transport.

Due to safety and security concerns, Australian government officials and their families are advised to use public transport services in Israel that include security screening of passengers and luggage. This doesn't apply to taxis.

Sea travel

Don't travel by sea to the coast of Gaza (see 'Safety').

Air travel

Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion International Airport may pause operations due to heightened security concerns at any time and at short notice. This may cause flight delays or cancellations. Check with your airline for the latest updates before travelling.

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

Check Israel's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on 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 insurer 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, 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