U.S. Travelers in Israel

The following information is provided by my office from the U.S. Department of State:

Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Jerusalem Shelter-in-Place (March 1, 2026)

Event: As a result of the current security situation, the U.S. Embassy has directed that all U.S. government employees and their family members continue to shelter in place in and near their residences until further notice.

Given the security situation and in compliance with Israel Home Front Command guidance, the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem will be closed on Monday March 2, 2026. This includes the Consular Sections in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. There will be no passport (emergency or regular) or Consular Report of Birth Abroad services.

The U.S. Embassy is not in a position at this time to evacuate or directly assist Americans in departing Israel.

Ben Gurion Airport remains closed, and there are no commercial or charter flights operating from there. Please check the status of Ben Gurion Airport here.

The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens of the continued need for caution and increased personal security awareness – including knowing the location of the nearest shelter in the event of a red alert as security incidents, such as mortar, rocket, and missile fire, and unmanned aircraft system (UAS) intrusions, often take place without any warning. The security environment is complex and can change quickly.

In response to security incidents and without advance notice, the U.S. Embassy may further restrict or prohibit U.S. government employees and their family members from traveling to certain areas of Israel (including the Old City of Jerusalem) and the West Bank.

U.S. citizens can find additional information regarding steps to take in case of mortar and rocket fire and hostile aircraft intrusion in the Country Information  for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza:

Mortar and Rocket Fire or Hostile Aircraft Intrusion: In the event of mortar or rocket fire or Hostile Aircraft Intrusion, a “red alert” siren may be activated. Treat all such alerts as real. Follow the instructions from local authorities and seek shelter immediately. Know the location of your closest shelter or protected space. U.S. government personnel and their family members may be restricted from traveling to areas affected by rocket activity, sirens, and/or the opening of bomb shelters. For additional information on appropriate action to take upon hearing a siren or explosion, see the Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command website  (available on devices within Israel) or view the Preparedness Information. U.S. citizens may also wish to download the free Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command application on Android or Apple devices to receive real-time security and safety alerts. Free commercial applications, such as Red Alert: Israel, are also available.

Actions to Take:

Refer to our website for the latest Security Alerts: https://il.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/security-and-travel-information/.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Learn the location of the nearest bomb shelter or other hardened shelter. Download the Home Front Command Red Alert application  or similar apps for mobile devices (available on devices within Israel) to receive real time alerts for rocket and missile attacks and armed UAV intrusions.
Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings.
Avoid all areas where there is a heavy police presence.
Monitor local media.
Follow the instructions of local authorities.
Enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates and makes it easier for the U.S. Embassy to contact you in an emergency.
Regularly monitor the State Department’s website , where you can find current Travel Advisories (including the Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza ) and the Worldwide Caution . Read the Country Information for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza . For additional information, refer to “Traveler’s Checklist ” on the State Department’s website.