travel medications for israel

Update April 12, 2024

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Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Travel Advisory April 11, 2024

See individual summaries.

Updated with information on travel restrictions for U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission security responsibility. 

Do Not Travel To :

• Gaza due to  terrorism and  armed conflict

Reconsider Travel To :

• Israel due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest
• West Bank due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Violence can occur in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza without warning.

Some areas have increased risk. Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Israel and the West Bank, and Gaza. 

Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.

• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Check the most recent Alerts at the  Embassy  website for the latest information on travel in all of these areas.  
• Maintain a high degree of situational awareness and exercise caution at all times, especially at checkpoints and other areas with a significant presence of security forces. 
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds. 
• Follow the instructions of security and emergency response officials. 
• Beware of and report suspicious activities, including unattended items, to local police. 
• Learn the location of the nearest bomb shelter or other hardened shelter. Download the Home Front Command Red Alert application for mobile devices (available on devices within Israel) to receive real time alerts for rocket attacks. 
• Obtain comprehensive travel medical insurance that includes medical evacuation prior to travel. Most travel insurance packages do not cover mental health related illnesses/care.  
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.  
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Gaza – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to  terrorism and  armed conflict .

The U.S. government is unable to provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Gaza as U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling there. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are conducting large-scale military operations in Gaza against Hamas, a U.S. government-designated foreign terrorist organization, which was responsible for the October 7 attack on Israel. As a result of the armed conflict, the security environment within Gaza and on its borders is extremely dangerous and volatile. The pedestrian crossing between Gaza and Israel was damaged on October 7 and remains closed, and the pedestrian crossing between Egypt and Gaza may close without advance notice depending on the security situation. There are sporadic telecommunication and internet outages within Gaza further inhibiting the ability of residents to obtain information. 

Visit our website for  Travel to High Risk Areas .  

If you decide to travel to Gaza:

• Be prepared for an indefinite stay as the crossings between Gaza with Israel and Egypt can close without advance notice and for long periods during times of unrest and armed conflict.
• Have a plan for entering and departing Gaza that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Households with infants and young children should plan for food and supplies, such as diapers and wipes, formula or baby food, and a change of clothing.
• If you take medication, make sure to have at least five days’ worth at any given time – if you can, we encourage enough for two weeks beyond your scheduled trip and have a copy of your prescriptions handy.
• If you use assistive or medical devices that require a power supply, be sure to find backup power or other ways that will sustain your device or equipment during a power outage.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.

Please be sure to visit our website for How to Prepare for a Crisis for information that may be helpful. 

Israel – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to  terrorism and civil unrest .

The security situation remains unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness as security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire, often take place without warning.

U.S. government employees in Israel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are currently restricted from personal travel to the following locations:

• Within seven miles of the Gaza demarcation line, as well as the cities of Ashdod and Ashkelon;
• Within 2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders; and
• Within 1.5 miles of the Israel-Egypt border.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission security responsibility, with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

West Bank – Reconsider Travel

U.S. government employees in Israel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are currently restricted from all personal travel to the West Bank, except:

• U.S. government employees can use Routes 1, 90, and 443 at any time. 
• U.S. government employees are permitted personal travel to Jericho. 
• U.S. government employees are permitted daylight travel to: Inn of the Good Samaritan, An-Nabi Musa, Wadi Qelt Nature Preserve, and St. George’s Monastery along Route 1; and Qumran, Kalia Beach, St. Gerasimos/Khogla Monastery, Al Auju, and Qasr al-Yaud baptismal site along Route 90. 

Over the past few months, there has been an increase in settler violence, Israeli military operations, and terrorist attacks.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission security responsibility with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Visit our website for  Travel to High Risk Areas .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

No minimum requirement, but your authorized stay will not exceed the validity remaining on your passport and airlines may decline boarding if a traveler has fewer than six months validity on his or her passport.

1 page (although passports are normally not stamped upon entry).

Not required for stays of 90 days or fewer. Please see below for detailed information about entry, exit and visa requirements.

You must declare if you are carrying 50,000 shekels or more when entering or exiting Israel by air and 12,000 shekels if entering or exiting by land.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Jerusalem   14 David Flusser Street   Jerusalem 93392   Telephone:  + (972) (2) 630-4000  Emergency After-Hours Telephone : + (972) (2) 622-7230  Email:   [email protected]

Contact the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem for information and assistance in Jerusalem, the West Bank, Gaza (including the Erez Crossing), and the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge border crossing between Jordan and the West Bank.

U.S. Office of Palestinian Affairs 18 Agron Road Jerusalem 9419003 Telephone: + (972) (2) 630-4000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone : + (972) (2) 622-7230 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Embassy Jerusalem Branch Office Tel Aviv   71 HaYarkon Street   Tel Aviv Israel 63903   Telephone:  + (972) (3) 519-7575  Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  + (972) (3) 519-7551  Email:   [email protected]

Contact the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy Branch Office in Tel Aviv for information and assistance in Israel outside of Jerusalem, and the northern (Sheikh Hussein) and southern (Yitzhak Rabin) border crossings connecting Israel and Jordan, and the border crossings between Israel and Egypt.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.  Please read the  Israel, West Bank, and Gaza Travel Advisory  for additional information.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

The Government of Israel administers immigration and security controls at its international land crossings with Jordan (into both the West Bank and Israel), Egypt (at the Taba crossing near Eilat), and at Israel’s airports and seaports. A separate network of security checkpoints and crossings operated by Israeli authorities regulates the movement of people and goods between Israel and the West Bank, and between Israel and Gaza.

The U.S. government seeks equal treatment and freedom of travel for all U.S. citizens regardless of national origin, religion, or ethnicity . All persons seeking to enter or depart Israel, the West Bank, or Gaza are subject to  immigration and security screening , possibly including prolonged questioning and physical searches, and  may be denied entry or exit  consistent with the uniform application of Israeli law. Persons who are denied entry have the right to an immigration court hearing to contest the denial, but they will be detained for the duration of the proceedings. Specific questions about your individual circumstances should be directed to your closest Israeli Embassy or Consulate.

When traveling into Israel,  please make sure you have proper  travel  documentation – including a full validity U.S. passport – before arrival in Israel. Israel may deny entry to an individual using a limited-validity, or emergency U.S. passport. 

1. Do I need a visa to enter Israel if I normally live in the United States?

U.S. citizens may use their U.S. passport to enter Israel for business or tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days without a visa, including U.S. citizens transiting Israel to and from the West Bank. For more information, please contact your nearest Israeli Embassy or consulate and consult this webpage:  Entry-Exit into Israel .

2. Do I need a visa to enter the West Bank if I am visiting the West Bank and normally live in the United States?

U.S. citizens who are not West Bank residents can use their U.S. passport to enter the West Bank for business or tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days without a visa. For more information, visit the Government of Israel’s webpage:  Entry-Exit Information: Israel, the West Bank and Gaza.

U.S. citizens who are not PA ID/passport holders and who wish to study, teach, research, work, or volunteer in the West Bank should consult the Government of Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT)  regulations  on entry into the West Bank. U.S. citizens who are engaged or are married to West Bank residents and wish to remain in the West Bank should also consult these regulations. Questions regarding these regulations can be directed to COGAT by email at  [email protected]  or by phone at +972-3-697-7577.

3. Do I need a visa to enter Israel if I normally live in the West Bank?

U.S. citizens who are also residents of the West Bank can either apply for a permit to enter Israel from the Government of Israel’s COGAT or apply for a visa to enter Israel at Allenby Bridge in order to transit through the West Bank to Israel for up to 90 days. For more information, visit the Government of Israel’s webpage:  Entry-Exit Information: Israel, the West Bank and Gaza.

4. Do I need a visa to enter Gaza through Israel if I normally live in the United States?

Please see the  Travel Advisory  before traveling to Gaza. Gaza is Level 4 – Do Not Travel. We remind all U.S. citizens seeking to travel to Gaza that the U.S. government is unable to provide routine or emergency services to U.S. citizens in Gaza. U.S. citizens seeking entry into Israel from Gaza (or entry into Gaza from Israel) should follow the instructions provided on the COGAT website to request permission to enter. For more information, visit the Government of Israel’s webpage:  Entry-Exit Information: Israel, the West Bank and Gaza.

5. Can U.S. citizens registered as residents of Gaza enter or transit Israel?

A U.S. citizen who is also listed on the Palestinian Population registry for Gaza and has a center of life in the Gaza – someone who has spent more than 50 percent of the last five years in Gaza (or more than 912 days) as confirmed by the Israeli government – can apply while they are in Gaza for a permit to enter Israel via the Erez Crossing from the Government of Israel’s COGAT. When outside of Gaza, they may apply for admission to enter Israel through any international port of entry.

A U.S. citizen who is also listed on the Palestinian Population registry for Gaza and has a center of life outside the Gaza Strip – someone who has spent more than 50 percent of the last five years outside of Gaza (or more than 912 days) as confirmed by the Israeli government – may use their U.S. passport to enter Israel for business or tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days without a visa, including transiting Israel to and from the West Bank.  Such U.S. citizens cannot enter on their U.S. passport for the purpose of transiting Israel to Gaza.

For more information, visit the Government of Israel’s webpage:  Entry-Exit Information: Israel, the West Bank and Gaza.

6. What if I am denied entry?

U.S. citizens should immediately report any denial of entry or harassment or discriminatory treatment by border officials to the American Citizens Services (ACS) unit of the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem or the Embassy Branch Office in Tel Aviv.

• U.S. citizens can use the U.S. Embassy Jerusalem and Branch Office Tel Aviv  online reporting form .
• U.S. citizens can call the Embassy at the phone numbers on our website (denials of entry only):  U.S. Citizen Services - U.S. Embassy in Israel (usembassy.gov)

Please note that the decision to admit or deny a traveler admission to Israel is entirely made by the State of Israel, and the U.S. Embassy cannot intervene on an individual’s behalf. U.S. citizens who are denied entry into Israel or the West Bank should receive a written explanation from Israeli authorities.

The Israeli Ministry of Interior has continued to deny entry into Israel and the West Bank of some foreign nationals (including U.S. citizens) affiliated with certain political and non-governmental organizations that the Government of Israel views as anti-Israel. Participation in Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS)-related activities is one of the considerations Israeli authorities consider when deciding whether to refuse entry to individuals into Israel and the West Bank.

In addition to contacting the U.S. Embassy, if you were the subject of mistreatment or harassment by Israeli authorities upon entry to or at exit from Israel, you may also email  [email protected]  to file a complaint with the Israeli authorities. If the mistreatment or harassment occurred at a check point to the West Bank you may email  [email protected]  to file a complaint.

7. What if I’m an Israeli citizen?

Individuals with Israeli citizenship, regardless of other nationality, including U.S. citizenship, must enter and depart Israel using their Israeli passports in accordance with Israeli law. Due to a passport backlog, Israeli citizens are temporarily allowed to enter and depart Israel on non-Israeli passports until December 31, 2023. Israeli citizens are prohibited from using the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge crossing. They are also prohibited from entering Gaza and are generally prohibited from traveling to parts of the West Bank under PA control (Area A), to include Bethlehem and Jericho.

Further information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction,  and  customs regulations  can be found on our website at travel.state.gov.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Please view the current  Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza for detailed information regarding the terrorism threat in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. For more information, see our  Terrorism  page.

Jerusalem:   See the  Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza  for additional information.

The West Bank:   See the  Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza  for additional information.

The Gaza Strip:   See the  Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza  for additional information.

Mortar and Rocket Fire:  In the event of mortar or rocket fire, 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.

Crime:  The crime rate is moderate in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Parked vehicle break-ins are common at public beach areas, national parks, and other tourist sites. Vehicle theft also remains a problem. U.S. citizens should not leave their valuables (including passports) unattended in parked vehicles, on the beach, or unsecured in hotels. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings in tourist areas and watch for crimes of opportunity, such as pickpockets.

For additional information, read the most recent Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC)  Crime and Safety Report for Israel .

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. 
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police. The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in Israel and the West Bank is 100 for police, 101 for an ambulance, and 102 for the fire department.

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. You can reach the U.S. Embassy at the contact information provided above. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Israel National Police
• Ministry of Justice 
• Ministry of Public Security
• Provide information on Government of Israel assistance to victims of terrorist acts (contact the  National Insurance Institute  for more information)
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence should contact local police but may also contact the U.S. Embassy Jerusalem or Embassy Branch Office Tel Aviv to report it.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws and legal systems, which can be vastly different from those in the United States. If you violate Israeli or Palestinian Authority laws, even unknowingly, being a U.S. citizen will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking illegal drugs in Israel and PA-administered areas are severe and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Individuals expressing views, including on social media, which the Government of Israel considers incitement to violence or hate speech may face criminal penalties. Palestinian Authority security officials have also arrested Palestinians who posted criticism of the PA and PA leadership online. In Gaza, individuals publicly criticizing authorities have risked reprisal by Hamas, including arrest, interrogation, seizure of property, and harassment.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrests and Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to immediately notify the U.S. Embassy Jerusalem or the U.S. Embassy Branch Office Tel Aviv immediately. See our  website  for further information. While the U.S. Embassy may not recommend a particular foreign attorney, the embassy website has the names of several attorneys who have identified themselves as willing to assist U.S. citizen clients. Please note that inclusion on this list in no way represents an endorsement of services by the Department or the U.S. government. 

Arrests and Arrest Notification by Israel: 

• The Government of Israel is required by a bilateral treaty and customary international law to promptly notify the U.S. Embassy when a U.S. citizen is arrested IF the citizen identifies themself as a U.S. citizen AND requests that the U.S. Embassy be notified. In case of arrest or detention, U.S. citizens should promptly identify themselves as such to the arresting authorities and request that the authorities notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. There are credible reports that U.S. citizens have been mistreated by Israeli security forces during their arrest and interrogation.
• Some youths over the age of 14 have been detained and tried as adults. 
• Arrestees have also reported pressure to sign documents in Hebrew that they do not understand.
• U.S. citizens arrested in Israel for criminal or security offenses are entitled to legal representation provided by the Government of Israel. U.S. citizens arrested by Israeli authorities for security offenses may be prevented from communicating with lawyers, family members, or consular officers for lengthy periods. Even after notification, consular access to the arrested individual may be delayed for days to several weeks. Under Israeli law, individuals detained for security offenses may be held for up to six months without charges.

Arrests and Arrest Notification by the Palestinian Authority (PA):

• Individuals arrested by PA security forces in the West Bank for security offenses may be prohibited from communicating with lawyers, family members, or consular officers for lengthy periods. In addition, they may be held in custody for long periods without formal charges or before being brought before a judge for an arrest extension. The PA often does not notify the U.S. Embassy of such arrests, and consular access to arrestees is often delayed or denied. There are credible reports that arrested individuals, including U.S. citizens, have been mistreated by PA security forces during their arrest and interrogation. In case of arrest or detention, U.S. citizens should promptly identify themselves as such to the arresting authorities and should request that the U.S. Embassy be notified immediately.

Gaza:  Since Hamas seized control of the Gaza Strip in June 2007, they have dominated security matters in Gaza. The U.S. government has no contact with Hamas and cannot assist those arrested in Gaza.

Israeli Court Jurisdiction:  Civil and religious courts in Israel actively exercise their authority to bar certain individuals, including nonresidents, from leaving the country until debts or other legal claims against them are resolved. Israel's religious courts exercise jurisdiction over all citizens and residents of Israel in cases of marriage, divorce, child custody, and child support. U.S. citizens, including those without Israeli citizenship, may be subject to involuntary and prolonged stays (and even imprisonment) in Israel if a case is filed against them in a religious court, even if their marriage took place in the United States, and regardless of whether their spouse is present in Israel. The U.S. Embassy is unable to cancel the debt of a U.S. citizen or guarantee their departure from Israel when they face a bar from leaving the country until debts are resolved.    Purchases of Property:  U.S. citizens should always seek legal advice before buying or leasing property in the West Bank and Gaza. Please see the most recent  Investment Climate Statement for the West Bank and Gaza  for additional information on property rights.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or be forced to forfeit them if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Rights:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) events in Israel. Israeli anti-discrimination laws protect LGBTQI+ individuals. Acceptance and tolerance of LGBQTI+ people vary throughout the country and from neighborhood to neighborhood. As of August 2014, the Law of Return allows that same-sex spouses of Jews immigrating to Israel – known as “making Aliyah” – are eligible to make Aliyah with their spouses and receive Israeli citizenship.    The legal systems in the West Bank and Gaza Strip are based on the 1960 Jordanian penal code which prohibits consensual same-sex sexual activity. However, the Palestinian Authority (PA) has not prosecuted individuals suspected of such activity. Societal discrimination, including from families, based on cultural and religious traditions is commonplace, making the West Bank and Gaza challenging environments for LGBTQI+ persons. PA security officers have harassed, abused, and sometimes arrested LGBTQI+ individuals because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. NGOs have reported that Hamas also harassed and detained persons in Gaza due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.    LGBTQI+ travelers are encouraged to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings, especially when entering religious or socially conservative areas.

Israel’s  Aguda  organization provides useful information on LGBTQI+ issues in Israel.    See   our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Persons with Mobility Issues:  Individuals with mobility issues may find accessibility and accommodation in Israel very different from in the United States. Legislation mandates access to buildings and transportation, as well as accommodations for persons with disabilities in services and the workplace. However, the government enforces the laws with only limited success. Societal discrimination and lack of accessibility persist in employment and housing. The law mandates accessibility to urban public transportation but not to intercity buses. Most train stations maintain access for persons with disabilities; however, many buses still do not have such access. Television stations include subtitles or sign language, and the courts accommodate testimony from persons with intellectual disabilities or mental illness. Tourists will find restaurants, foot paths, and public transportation less accessible than in the United States.

Palestinian Authority law prohibits discrimination based on disability. The Palestinian Disability Law was ratified in 1999, but implementation has been slow. It does not mandate access to buildings, information, or communications. Palestinians with disabilities continue to receive uneven and poor-quality services and care. Familial and societal discrimination against persons with disabilities exists in both the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Modern medical care and medicines are available in Israel. Some hospitals in Israel and most hospitals in the West Bank and Gaza, however, fall below Western standards. Travelers can find information in English about emergency medical facilities and after-hours pharmacies in the  Jerusalem Post  and the English-language edition of the  Ha'aretz  newspaper, or refer to the  U.S. Embassy’s medical information list .

Ambulance services are widely available in Israel. Ambulance services in the West Bank are available but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. The U.S. government does not have knowledge of ambulance services in Gaza. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) operates in the West Bank and Gaza.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas, including for COVID-19. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Israel  Ministry of Health  to ensure the medication is legal in Israel. Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For further health information, go to :

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list  of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout Israel but health care in the West Bank and Gaza may be below U.S. standards.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on medical tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling.
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.

Pharmaceuticals

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication may only be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Israel to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .
• Surrogacy is subject to complex local regulation. For additional information, visit the Israel Ministry of Health  website  for information on surrogacy.

Water Quality

• In many areas of the West Bank and Gaza, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  While in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below is provided for general reference only and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

• Israel:   Israeli roads and highways tend to be crowded, especially in urban areas. The Government of Israel requires that all occupants of passenger cars always wear seat belts. Passenger cars must use headlights during all intercity travel, both day and night, and during winter. All drivers are required to carry fluorescent vests and safety triangles in the car with them at all times, and they are required to wear the vests whenever they get out of their cars to make repairs or change tires. If a vehicle is stopped for a traffic violation and it does not contain a fluorescent vest, the driver will be fined. These vests can be purchased for a nominal price in all local gas stations. While mobile phone use is prohibited while driving, hands-free units are authorized. The acceptable limit for blood alcohol content is lower in Israel than in the United States.
• West Bank and Gaza:  Crowded roads are common in the West Bank and Gaza. During periods of heightened tension in the West Bank, protestors have targeted cars and buses with stone throwing, improvised incendiary devices, small arms fire, barricades, and burning tires. Emergency services may be delayed by the need for Palestinian authorities to coordinate with Israeli officials. Seat belt use is required, and drivers may not drink alcohol. Individuals involved in accidents resulting in death or injury may be detained by police pending an investigation.

Traffic Laws:  Aggressive driving is commonplace, and many drivers fail to maintain safe following distances or signal before changing lanes or making turns. Overtaking at high-speed on undivided two-lane roads is common and may result in accidents. Drivers are also prone to stop suddenly on roads without warning, especially in the right lane. Drivers should use caution, as Israel has a high rate of fatalities from automobile accidents.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. We suggest that you visit the website of the country’s national tourist office and Israel's Ministry of Transport and Road Safety  for additional information on road safety.    Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed that the Government of Israel’s Civil Aviation Authority is in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Israel’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page

For additional travel information

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• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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‍Healthcare for Tourists in Israel

Dealing with a medical situation, big or small, can feel very overwhelming especially when we are away from home. This guide is intended to provide background information for tourists in Israel on their options for care, and what to do before, during, and after their visit to Israel to ensure they get the care they need, and maximize their chances of coverage for any medical expenses incurred. 

Traveler’s Insurance

Having traveler’s insurance is critical to managing any medical crisis and cover the costs of the care which may be needed while you are in Israel. Without adequate health insurance, you may be left with a significant medical bill. Israel reserve’s the right to prevent you from exiting the county if you have an unpaid medical bill. Traveler’s insurance must be purchased before you leave for your trip to Israel in order for it to be valid. There are many options for traveler’s insurance, and we encourage you to do your research to find the most cost-effective, comprehensive plan.

‍ Options for Traveler’s Insurance:

1. Your general health insurance coverage from your home country:

• Some health insurance providers have traveler’s insurance built-in to your existing plans. The availability and extent of this insurance coverage abroad must be confirmed directly with your insurance provider, and we recommend asking for written documentation confirming that  your current plan does, in fact, cover you abroad.
• If your existing general health insurance does not cover you abroad, there may be an option to purchase additional traveler’s insurance for the duration of your trip.  ‍
• Medicare does not offer any coverage outside of the U.S.

2. Private Traveler’s Insurance Agencies from your home country

There are many private insurance agencies worldwide which sell traveler’s insurance. You should speak to them directly, and clarify what is included in the plan. 

3. Private Israeli Insurance Agencies

• You can purchase health insurance through some Israeli private insurance agencies.
• Each Kupah (HMO) also has a non-citizen health plan which can be purchased by tourists; (this is the best option for visitors who are coming for an extended period of time on visas, or planning on making Aliyah during their time in Israel).

Remember! Get confirmation directly from an insurance agency as to what is included in their coverage, what is NOT included (such as pre-existing conditions), and what their policies are on co-payments, deductibles, and reimbursement. Always ask for these details in writing, and remember to add your health insurance agency’s number to your contacts, so you can reach them if needed.

How to See a Doctor in Israel (Non-urgent/non-acute)

In general, when a tourist needs to see a doctor when in Israel, they must go to a private physician, and can not go to a Kupat Cholim clinic. (The exception to this is if you are on a Kupah tourist/non-citizen plan, and then you can only go to a doctor in your Kupat Cholim clinic).

Private doctors are available throughout Israel. You can ask locals for recommendations, google the type of doctor you are looking for, or crowdsource on our Facebook Group - Navigate the Israeli Healthcare System .

Once you find the doctor you want, simply call the clinic and make an appointment. Many private clinics  which service tourists have English speaking staff to assist you. The cost of a consultation with a Private family doctor (GP) ranges from about 250 NIS - 1,000 NIS, while private specialist appointments generally start at 800 NIS and can go up to 2,000 NIS or more.

Make sure to keep all receipts and documentation from your doctors' appointments to submit to your insurance company with your claim (see below).

Urgent Care/ER

*If you are experiencing a life threatening emergency, do not hesitate to call an ambulance and/or go to the Emergency Room!*

MADA: Dial 101           Hatzalah: Dial 1221

Urgent Care: Urgent care facilities are a first stop when you need treatment such as an IV for dehydration, may need stitches, or have other medical concerns that may not seem immediately life threatening, but may nevertheless require immediate diagnoses or care. Most urgent care centers in Israel have the ability to carry out  on the spot  blood and urine tests, x-rays, ultrasounds, and more. The cost of an urgent care visit typically ranges from 300 NIS - 500 NIS. While some urgent care centers are open 24/7 so it is important to check which clinic is open late at night. 

Some urgent care centers in Israel include:

• TEREM (Jerusalem & Central Israel) 
• Bikur Rofeh (All over Israel)
• Machar - Merkaz Cherum Rifui (Gush Etzion)
• The Family Medical Center - Wolfson (Jerusalem)
• Tel Aviv Doctor (Tel Aviv)

Emergency Room: Emergency Rooms are the place to go when dealing with a life threatening or acute issue  which cannot be handled by an Urgent Care facility. Sometimes, family doctors or urgent care centers will refer you to the ER if they cannot make a diagnosis, or do not have the testing facilities or  cannot provide the care you require. The cost of an emergency room visit starts at about 900 NIS, but will  increase significantly if you are hospitalized, require specialized testing, or surgery. ERs in Israel are open 24/7 and you can go to the ER of your choice.  ERs in Israel are generally known as מיון (miyun), or מלר״ד (malrad - מרכז/מחלקה לרפואה דחופה).

Some ERs in Israel include:

• Sha’are Tzedek Medical Center (Jerusalem)
• Hadassah Ein Kerem (Jerusalem)
• Hadassah Har HaTzofim (Mount Scopus, Jerusalem)
• Bikur Cholim (Jerusalem- a sub division of Sha’arei Tzedek)
• Ma’ayanei HaYeshua (Bnei Brak)
• Ichilov (Tel Aviv)
• Sheba - Tel HaShomer (Ramat Gan)
• Assaf HaRofe (Rishon LeTzion/Tzrifin)
• Wolfson Medical Center (Holon)
• Hillel Yaffe Medical Center (Hadera)
• Saroka Medical Center (Be’er Sheva)
• Barzilai Medical Center (Ashkelon)
• Yoseftal Medical Center (Eilat)
• Carmel Medical Center (Haifa)
• Bnei Zion Medical Center (Haifa)
• Rambam Hospital (Haifa)
• Galilee Medical Center (Nahariya)
• Baruch Padeh Medical Center (Tiberias)

For a list of Psychiatric Emergencies Rooms see our Mental Healthcare Guide .

Remember! Bring your passport, insurance information, and referrals from doctors or specialists when going to Urgent Care/ER. Make sure the doctor is aware of any medical history or medications you are taking, and any medical summaries you may have from abroad. Wait times can be long so bring a phone charger, some snacks, and a friend or family member.

Proper Documentation for Reimbursement

All traveler’s insurance agencies will have their own policies  on how to pay for or receive reimbursement for care, which should be clarified before your trip. However, here are some tips in order to ensure you have everything you need to receive coverage for medical care received in Israel:

• Receipts and billing should be in English! Many US insurance agencies will not accept Hebrew bills. You can get this from the doctor’s medical secretary or the billing department of the hospital.
• Full Name & ID (passport number) must appear on the bill/receipt! Bring your passport to the appointments, and make sure your name and ID are in English, and match any bills and documentation received.
• If hospitalized/or had surgery, get an itemized bill. Bills for extended hospitalization or surgery can be costly, and your insurance will likely want to see an itemized bill in English. You may need to push the billing department to do this properly, and be in touch with your insurance agency to ensure it is structured in the  way they find acceptable.
• Get a medical summary in English. Have the doctor write a summary of the appointment, diagnoses, etc, and have the hospital give you a clear discharge letter in English.
• Keep accompanying referrals or letters. If you went to Urgent Care and were referred to the ER, keep that referral as it may be necessary for insurance to cover the visit to the ER. 
• In addition to any hard copies you are given, take photographic copies of all documentation on your phone as soon as you get it.
• Use “protexia” when you can. For example, if you have a family member or friend who is, or works with, a doctor, ask them for help.   This is common practice in Israel!
• Take someone with you to the appointment or Urgent Care/ER. 

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We are so excited you are planning a trip to Israel! As you prepare for your trip, here are some travel tips and general information.

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• Click to download a PDF of Israel Travel Handbook .
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Check that your passport is not expired or about to expire. Your passport must be valid for at least six months following the date you arrive in Israel. Information about ordering a passport is found here . Make a copy of your passport photo/signature page which includes your passport number and keep it in your suitcase.

Be sure to check with both your domestic and international airline carrier about baggage rules and fees. It is recommended that you bring at least one change of clothes, toiletries, prescription medications and valuables in your carry-on bag in the unlikely event that your checked luggage gets delayed. You may also want to bring some snacks with you for your flight.  It can be difficult and expensive to get over-the-counter medication.  Consider bringing a small quantity of items such as Tylenol, Imodium and motion sickness medication.

The local currency is the New Israeli Shekel. Each shekel is worth about 25 cents. Shekel coins come in units of 1 (~25 cents), 2 (~50 cents), 5 (~$1.25),and 10 (~$2.50), as well as much smaller coin denominations called agorot. Shekel bills come in units of 20 (~$5), 50 (~$12.50), 100 (~$25) and 200 (~$50) denominations. One important thing to keep in mind is that coins in Israel have much higher values than what we are used to in North America, so watch your coins carefully. Go to Coinmill.com/ILS_USD.html for the current exchange rate.

Exchanging Money, Debit, and Credit Cards

The most convenient place to exchange cash is at the airport. There are two exchange booths near the luggage carousels.  If your ATM/Debit card has a Visa, MasterCard, Star, Cirrus, or Maestro logo imprint, there should not be a problem withdrawing money. PLUS cards will not work in Israel. Major credit cards like VISA and MasterCard are accepted throughout Israel.  Most banks and credit card companies charge a foreign transaction fee. Be sure to check with your bank/credit card company about what their fee is and also let them know you will be traveling abroad prior to your departure. Some credit card companies, such as Capital One, do not charge foreign transaction fees.

Electrical Current

The electrical current in Israel is 220 volts, which is twice the voltage used in North America. The electrical plugs are also different, with two rounded prongs. You will need a voltage converter if you are bringing electronic or electrical items (unless they have a built-in one) as well as an adapter for plugging in your items. Adapters can be purchased at an electronics store, travel store or in the travel section of a discount store (i.e. Target & Walmart).

Medication and Contact Lenses

If you are taking prescription medication, bring enough for the duration of your trip. Take all medication on the plane with you in your carry-on luggage. Do NOT pack any medication with your checked luggage. The same is true for contact lenses.

The water in Israel is properly treated and is perfectly safe to drink. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive or you can bring a water bottle and fill it as needed. If you plan on hiking in Israel, especially in the summer, consider a CamelBak or other device to carry larger quantities of water.

If you use a cab anywhere in Israel, insist they turn the meter on – “moneh b’vakasha” (meter please). Cab drivers will try to negotiate a price in advance and not use the meter so they do not need to report the income. Unless you know how much the ride will cost, you are almost always better off paying the meter price.  If the driver refuses to put the meter on, simply get out of the car and wait for another cab.

Internet Access

In many areas of Israel, in particular Jerusalem, you can find free internet access.  Many hotels still charge for a wi-fi connection.  It may be beneficial to purchase a wi-fi modem through your phone company to have internet access at all times.  There are also companies in Israel that rent modems for your computer.  The rental fee is normally less than what hotels charge and you would have internet access at all times.

Israel enjoys warm, dry summers (April-October) and generally mild winters (November-March) with somewhat drier, cooler weather in hilly regions, such as Jerusalem and Safed. January is the wettest month and June, July and August are the driest months with no precipitation.  Average temperatures are listed below.

Popular Israeli Foods

While there is a tremendous variety of cuisines and foods eaten in Israel, certain dishes are considered typical Israeli food. These traditional foods of Israel can be found throughout the country in restaurants and cafés, food stands, and of course, in many Israeli homes.

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What to Pack for a Trip to Israel? (And What Not to Bring Along!)

• By Traveling Anne
• February 23, 2019
• In Israel Travel Advice

34 Comments

This post will provide you with the following lists -

• Things you absolutely should pack for a trip to Israel.
• Things you should probably bring along - depending on the nature of your trip.
• Things you shouldn't bring along.

This is a funny post for me to write because I actually live in Israel . However, as a fellow traveler, I fully appreciate the pains of packing for a new destination that you've never visited before.

The information is based on several sources.

First, questions and comments on my post about What to Wear in Israel . I have had hundreds of those over the years - and I always reply to them all!

Secondly, we love hosting people. We couchsurf and host other couchsurfers. Talking to so many travelers to Israel, I have a pretty good grasp of the things they were happy they brought along, the things they missed (and needed our help with) and the things they were sorry they had dragged along.

Keep reading so you can avoid repeating the same mistakes! And don't forget to follow the tips in the last section of this post as well - they're important!

Things you absolutely should pack for a trip to Israel

Here are the items that you either won't be able to replace or that replacing will take you way too much time. I'll also explain what to do in case you manage to forget or lose one of these.

Well, you won't be able to make it on board your flight without one, so the odds of you landing here without one are slim. However, it's possible to lose documents.

Before you leave, make a copy of your passport. Keep a print somewhere in your belongings, as well as a copy that you can access online.

If you happen to lose your passport while in Israel -

• If you suspect your passport was stolen, report the theft to the local police. Call the number 110 to find out where exactly you need to report the theft so you can get a written copy of the report. (The emergency number for the police in Israel is 100 - although dialing 911 will also work here. The 110 number is for their information center).
• Contact your embassy to find out how to get a new passport or alternative temporary travel documents for your flight back home.

Credit card

Almost all businesses in Israel accept credit cards. Israelis usually use local versions of VISA and Mastercard. You need to check with your bank to make sure that your card will work in Israel. At least some banks require you to state your travel plans in your account - or else the card will not be valid in a different country.

You can also use your card to get cash from ATM's. You'll find one next to every bank branch and in every shopping center. Just don't forget your code! By the way, you won't be asked for your PIN code when you pay at a store - just doesn't happen here.

What to do if you lose your credit card?

Call your bank back home right away to report the loss of the card. They should be able to instruct you on how to get money transferred to you so you can use it for the remainder of your trip.

Driver's license

You only need this if you plan on renting a vehicle. If you really want to see the country, beyond Jerusalem and Tel Aviv - renting a car in Israel will be a good idea . You can only do that with a valid driver's license. There's no need for any additional papers unless your driving license has no photo or doesn't have your name in English letters on it.

Yes, you can buy cell phones in Israel. In fact, that's easier to do here than in the US because all phones are - by law - unlocked. However, I'm sure you'd like to have your own phone with you - the one you're used to, which has all of your accounts on it etc. Also, phones are not cheap here.

In short, don't forget to pack your mobile phone!

Prescription glasses & sunglasses

You can get new prescription glasses in Israel but just like anywhere else in the world, it can be time-consuming. Save that for an actual emergency such as losing your spectacles, and just remember to pack both types.

Prescription  Medications

Bring along whatever prescription medication you may need. If your meds include narcotics or anything which may look suspicious, it won't hurt to bring along a copy of your original prescription and/or a letter from your doctor. I've never heard of anyone who had any problem with legitimate quantities for personal use - even for a few months - but you never know, so if in doubt, have the papers with you.

If you lose your prescription medications -

You can get a replacement here but naturally, you'll need to see a doctor first. Again, having access to a letter from your doctor or to your medical files will help and make the process faster.

If you have travel insurance with medical coverage, call the insurance companies to find out which doctors they work with. Otherwise, just Google "doctor in Tel Aviv" or "doctor in Jerusalem" and you'll get links to English-speaking doctors who treat tourists.

Things you should bring along

Generally, the dress code in Israel is very casual. Some would call it "non-existent". Just bring your favorite comfortable clothes as the weather calls for. No tie required, and no evening gowns. Even if you're going to a wedding. You'll feel overdressed and out of place.

Take a few minutes to read my detailed post about what to wear in Israel . I included a guide on what to wear, by month of the year, so you can tell whether you need a light jacket or a heavy coat - or possibly neither.

Should you bring "modest clothing"?

I've seen this as an item in others packing lists for Israel. To clarify - you can wear whatever you want in Israel, as long as you're not trying to visit a religious site like a synagogue, a church or a mosque. These establishments tend to have their own rules about what's modest enough for you to wear when visiting.

In my experience, at mosques, both men and women are required to cover the elbows and knees when visiting. Neither are asked to cover their head, by the way. Jewish and Christian sites tend to be more lenient. At the very least, you'll be expected to cover your shoulders. Some places may ask women to cover the elbows and knees as well.

As for synagogues - Orthodox Jewish men wear a head cover (usually with a yarmulka, locally known as "kippa"). Married Jewish women usually cover their head as well. Many visitors to synagogues and other religious sites cover their head out of respect, but you really don't have to.

I know this sounds weird, but local secular Jews sometimes make a point of not covering their head in such places. It's perfectly legal - but may get you into an argument. As a tourist, you may want to anyway, just to avoid any arguments.

So back to packing -

Both women and men should pack at least one set of clothes that cover your elbows and knees, for visiting holy sites.

Women should also carry a shawl or pashmina with them - which can be used as a head cover as well as for covering the shoulders when necessary. Men may want to pack a hat to be used as a head cover if planning to visit synagogues.  Actually, a hat is a good idea anyway, so just have accessible and available.

I get so many questions about footwear so clearly, this is on people's minds.

You should bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes. Period. Hiking boots? Sneakers? Sandals? Crocs? Your choice. Pretty much anything will work for any time of the year.

During summertime, you may want to go with a light and well-aired pair of shoes or sandals. But again, whatever works for you, as long as you're comfortable. By the way, if you're traveling light, you can just wear the shoes instead of packing them. One pair should be enough.

Toiletries etc.

Again, no problem with getting any type of toiletries here in Israel. Prices are a bit higher than in the US or even Europe but nothing too dramatic. If you forget anything, you can get it here.

Packing your usual set of toiletries makes sense, of course. You know which items and brands you like - there's no one-list-fits-all with these things. Don't forget any OTC medications that you're used to and female hygiene products (if you need them).

Other items

Finally - the "other items" section.

Adapter and/or converter

There are two separate issues - although you can find an all-in-one solution.

Adapter & Converter

You would need an adapter  just so that you can plug something into an Israeli outlet (depending on where you come from). This is what our outlets look like -

If you're coming from the US or Canada, you also need a converter.

Israel - like most European countries - uses 220v system. If you plug in a US-bought appliance into an Israeli socket - using a simple adapter you'll basically fry that gadget. It will probably work at first - and then stop once the excess voltage heats it up and destroys it. Tried and tested...

To avoid that, you need a voltage converter as well as an adapter. Fortunately, these are easy to get since you can have an adapter and converter in one. It will come in handy in any country you'll travel to.

Not sure which to get and where? Click for my detailed guide about adapters and converters for those traveling to Israel.

Phone chargers

Can't live without your phone and the phone can't live for long without a charger! You can buy phone chargers here but they will be a local version, suitable for our electric system. On the plus side, you won't need an adapter/converter. On the other hand, you won't be able to use them elsewhere in the world.

If you have an iPhone, chargers tend to be expensive so it's best to bring your own and take good care of it. That means never plugging it in without an adapter/converter (see above).

Extra phone batteries or power banks

You're bound to be using your phone a lot when traveling. Israel has excellent data phone coverage and there's free WiFi in many places. You'll also be taking pictures and maybe shooting videos.

I usually run out of battery mid-day when traveling. My Samsung Galaxy S6 has a fixed battery, so I carry one or two power banks with me. If your phone has detachable batteries, get a couple of those. Don't run of juice during your trip.

Traveling during summertime, or just planning on being outdoors a lot? Consider bringing a hat with you. Your choice of hat or cap is personal - just keep in mind that some sort of head cover when out in the sun is important.

A hat is also useful if you plan on visiting local synagogues. You don't have to cover your head but it is the polite thing to do.

Did I mention the sun already? You can get sunburnt here just by spending a few hours outside on a summer day. Even more so if you're visiting the seaside. Get good quality sunscreen that's right for your skin and use it liberally.

Things you shouldn't bring along

You probably know all about the items you can't bring aboard the airplane. Obviously, don't bring with you any drugs or drug paraphernalia or any weapon of any kind.

There are some items which may be perfectly legal to bring in Israel - but I would advise against doing so.

These items basically include anything that may raise suspicion of any kind of involvement in the conflict -

• Toy weapons
• Books or other reading material in Arabic
• Political material relating to the local conflict (regardless of which side you happen to support)
• Clothes which carry political statements relating to the local conflicts

Again, all of the above are perfectly legal to carry around in Israel. And if you're an Arab Israeli citizen who happens to be reading a book in Arabic on board the flight, that's perfectly ok too. The problem would be with tourists who may be suspected of being affiliated with terrorists - either Palestinian or Jewish ones (yes, we have the latter as well).

What would happen if you do bring one of these items?

I can tell you what happened to one of our Couchsurfing guests. He was an American guy, a Mormon who had spent six months in Egypt on his mission. While there, he took the time to learn Arabic and so he had with him a copy of the Koran in Arabic.

He came to Israel from Egypt on a bus and crossed the border near Eilat. When he entered, they asked him to show the content of his bag and that book in Arabic simply meant he had to wait for a couple of hours for them to call the officer in charge, and go through further questioning. Once they were convinced he was ok - he was let in, along with his Koran, not a problem. Except for the aggravation and lost time.

A few more tips for packing for a trip to Israel

Travel light.

Most people who visit Israel seem to avoid renting a car or driving. With some itineraries, that's fully justified. With others, not so much, but that's another point. If you want to know what I really think about this, read my post about renting a car in Israel .

The point is unless you're renting a car at the airport for the duration of your trip, you should really travel light. Lugging a big suitcase behind you is never fun. Public transportation options in Israel are generally ok but they may require you to walk for 5-10 minutes between stations when switching bus lines. Easier to do when you have less luggage, especially in the rain or on a hot day.

And do yourself a favor, unless you have back issues, choose a carry on backpack instead of a suitcase-only type of luggage. It's just going to be so much easier for you to take your stuff on your back as you travel around.

Pack clothes for only 3-4 days

Still, on the "travel light" theme.

If you're traveling with a low-cost airline, you may get a much cheaper ticket if you avoid bringing a suitcase at all. Sticking to the trolley-sized allowance is actually preferable, IMO. We've done that several times when we traveled to Europe and it worked just fine.

If you're traveling solo, you can absolutely pack clothes only for 3-4 days. You should be able to find self-service laundromats in any big city here, and in some of the smaller ones too. Just use Google Maps to find them. Here's what the search results look like in Tel Aviv -

Clicking on the pins will show you the opening hours. And they're super convenient with many places open 24/7. I only wish we could find laundromats that easily in European countries we travel to.

Other cities have their share of accessible laundromats, though with more limited opening hours. There's a reason why Tel Aviv's slogan is "The City That Never Stops".

The point is, you don't need to pack clothes for the entire trip - packing for 3-4 days is plenty. Just leave some time for doing your laundry.

If you travel solo, that is. If traveling with a group, you should discuss this with the tour organizer to see if you're going to get enough free time in major cities - and when that's going to happen.

You can find (almost) everything here

In other words: Don't fret.

Yes, I know. I suffer from travel anxiety myself, so I do fret before any trip, When packing is concerned, here's how my husband puts my mind at ease:

He reminds me that whatever we end up forgetting, we'll be able to buy once we reach our destination.

And he's right.

Get this - I was frantic about getting all of the right clothes, toiletries, and medical supplies in our suitcase before our very first trip to... the USA. Turns out, most of the stuff is actually available locally in the stores. Who would have thought?

Now, things are actually a little bit more expensive to buy in Israel. Also, your travel time is super valuable and you should make the most of it sightseeing and not shopping for sunscreen or band-aids. However, just know that if you do end up forgetting almost anything - you'll be able to find it here.

When I say "almost", I'm referring to the following -

• Driver's license (in case you'd like to rent a car)
• Credit car (getting one sent over would be a total PITA)

Other than that, you can absolutely forget anything else. Worst case scenario, you'll pay some money and buy a replacement while in Israel.

What about Israeli currency? How much you need besides having credit cards?

Hi JH, You can pay pretty much anywhere using credit cards. I would carry probably 100-200 NIS on me, just in case. You can always get more at any local ATM using an international card.

Hi there! This is going to be an unusual question. I’m European and want to travel to Israel. There’s an Israeli company named Mul-T-Lock with its headquarters in Yavne. Is it possible for me to go to the companies building and ask them to tell me a little more about some of their products and their history? And maybe entering the premises and visiting the workplace. I’m Mul-T-Lock’s biggest fan, I even have the companies logo as a tattoo.

Hi Dani, Yup, quite an unusual question. Why not email them and see? I have a feeling they would like to meet up with their biggest fan, but it’s something you should probably schedule in advance.

Loved your article! Spot on! Just came back and learned so much! Went with Imagine Tours and loved it! Only thing I would add about prescriptions – the original bottle or at least a written list of all meds and dosages in case you end up staying longer for whatever reason. (Covid, airline strikes,etc) I took my empty weekly container and then filled it once we got to the hotel. I traveled with pain meds (old lady here) in their bottle from the pharmacy but no one checked.

Also if traveling with checked bag – pack all your meds and a couple changes of clothes in your carry on. In our very large group two people’s luggage was misplaced for a couple of days.

Lol, I was just saying the same thing when replying to your previous comment. I should have read all of the comments first, but yeah, that’s the best thing to do these days.

Hi Charlotte,

Great tips! I would add this: have enough medication for a week in your carry on. So much luggage gets lost these days, it’s good to have enough on you until you find a local physician who can write more prescriptions should you need them. I’m glad you enjoyed your trip!

So, quick question, what open markets are better for fresh foods vs others to stay away from

Hi, This would depend on where exactly you are. All big cities have lively open markets and if you like them, you can check any local one and have a ball. In Jerusalem, look for Machne Yehuda Market, and in Tel Aviv for HaKarmel Market, to mention the two largest ones.

Hi, I am leaving November 1 on a spiritual trip to Israel with a tour group. I am so excited! However, I am concerned about currency in Israel. Do I need to convert my US dollars into Israel currency. And if I do, where do I need to go? I heard that the value of American dollars are not of high value in Israel. And you answered so many of my questions thru you web page. Thank you so much!

Great info, not sure how many people actually bring their pets, but I have a 3.5 lb 8 yrs old Chihuahua who hates being away from me more than a day or two. She travels with me everywhere and does really well around strangers. What are your thoughts on travel with pets? (Are there Pet friendly hotels)

Could you give me a little guidance on crafting tools? I am a knitter and I always bring along a project or two when there are long travel times. Do you think I will have any trouble with knitting needles, yarn, scissors, etc. while traveling within Israel or with the TSA rules leaving Israel?

Hi Sonia, I can only speak from my limited experience. I’ve just flown from Israel to the US and had a plastic crochet hook and some yarn on board with me. There was no issue with that. That was also the case in previous flights between the two countries, including coming from the US to Israel. Based on my experience, I believe a plastic hook or needles and yarn should be perfectly ok. Scissors, not so much. They’ll throw them away. You would either need to use a plastic knife (like the one they give you with your meals) or maybe something like this little gadget . I took that one with me once and had no issues (no guarantees though, just my own experience). I hope this helps! Have a safe flight and a good trip!

I was wondering if its ok to wear like spiritual t shirt?

Hi Denise, Do you mean one that advocates a specific religion? It would be fine when visiting a location where that religion is practiced. For example, a tee-shirt with an image of Christ would be perfectly ok when visiting a church. It should also be ok in most secular Israeli cities/towns, especially for a tourist. I’m not sure it would be welcome when visiting a mosque or a synagogue.

I take medication. Is it ok to put the daily meds into a weekly medication container ? Or do all the meds need to be in separate containers? I haven’t had any issues in other parts of Europe but am not sure about Israel

Good question, Lee. I don’t think this is specific to Israel, but generally speaking, it’s best to carry medications in their original packaging when going through customs. For prescription medications, especially opiates or amphetamines, it’s a good idea to carry with you a letter from your doctor, or at least your signed prescription. Having said all that, as long as the quantities are for personal use, I’ve never heard of anyone who had trouble bringing them into Israel (or into the US, as a visitor there). I don’t think anyone will even ask to see your luggage or their contents and I highly doubt they would mind a weekly medication container with a small amount of meds for personal use. I hope this helps! Enjoy your visit!

Should we bring washcloths to use in bathing? We have had to bring them on trips to Europe. Thanks for all of your advice. We’ll be arriving next week. Can’t wait!

Hi Janet, Everywhere you’ll say at will have a shower and maybe even a bathtub. I’ve never heard of anyone using a washcloth though. I hope this helps.

Anne, Can I bring with me a bag of beef jerky to Israel. Thank you. Steve

Sure, as long as it’s sealed you should have no issues. I am 99% sure that an open bag would be perfectly ok too. I know that going into the US, bringing non-sealed food items is a problem, but I’ve never heard of anyone getting stopped bringing food into Israel. The only thing to avoid would be seeds and *maybe* whole fruit. And even then, I know it’s an issue going into the US – never heard of it being an issue when entering Israel.

Hi, thank you for your detailed article. I have never been to Israel and have my first trip in December. You have said anything can be purchased if forgotten. What about hearing aid batteries? I have a bad habit of forgetting to take them with me. Thank you

Hi Kathryn, Yes, you should be able to buy them here. I know they’re available in our local pharmacy chain (like the US Wallgreens). Ours is called Super-Pharm and there’s usually one in every large shopping mall (several in every city). I hope this helps and enjoy your trip!

Thanks for your guides. They’re fantastic. I haven’t seen anything about pocket knives. I’ve carried a small 3″ folding pocket knife every day for 40 years now. Not as a weapon, but as a legitimate tool. Is that a problem anywhere in Israel? Thanks again!

Hi Joz, Clearly, you wouldn’t be able to bring it on board the plane with you, so it’ll have to go into a checked-in suitcase. Worth mentioning because if you forget to, you’ll lose the knife. Once in Israel, I doubt you’ll have any problems with it. People carry pocket knives and fruit knives and I’ve never heard of anyone having any problems. In fact, the only time I was asked to get rid of a similar item was in Washington DC. It wasn’t even a pocket knife, just a tiny pair of scissors that I used for my crochet work… I had to throw that in the trash before I could get into the museum.

Thank you! I’ve done some overseas traveling and have always packed my pocket knife in my luggage. I’ve never had an issue with it. There was one time I got away with it at a Kremlin museum in Moscow where you weren’t supposed to have a pocket knife. Fortunately, I wasn’t searched and was able to keep my knife.

I’ve been to some countries in the middle east where it was rude to show anyone the bottom of your shoes and abstain from using your left hand in polite company. Are there any social norms I need to follow closely as an American to avoid offending people around me?

I’m really looking forward to visiting your amazing country. Thanks again!

I’m glad you’re back for a follow-up, Joz! I asked a friend who knows the local law regarding weapons. He says that as long as it’s a folding pocket knife that doesn’t have a fixed blade (or can be turned into one), it’s legal to carry around. The blade needs to be shorter than 10 centimeters too. There are limitations on where you can carry that though. You’re not allowed to take it into schools, for example. A police officer can still stop you for holding a pocket knife but with a foldable small pocket knife, he would have to prove that you have malicious intent. With a regular fixed-blade knife, there’s no need to prove intent – it’s illegal to carry in public places. Now, having said all that. It’s really up to you as to whether you want to carry that pocket knife around. My friend says that as long as it’s a small one, surrounded by work tools etc, like a swiss army knife, you shouldn’t have any problems. Personally, as a tourist, I’m not sure I would be going around with it. Maybe keep it in your luggage for when you really need it?

As for other codes and social norms, I can’t think of anything specific. Israelis are generally very warm and forward. You may find people to be louder than what you’re used to in the US, depending on where in the States you come from 😉 If you’re coming from NYC/NJ you’ll probably feel right at home. We’re not “Minnesota nice” here but then again, no one will be offended if you are. No limitations on hand use, shoes or anything else that I can think of. This is a very informal society. We call our teachers and military superiors by their first name, for example. Dress codes are very lax too and most Israeli men don’t own a suit or even a tie. If they ever wore one, it was on their wedding day. I hope you’re getting the picture by now – enjoy your trip!

Can I bring binoculars? I’m ornithologist. I will come by the plain, and I’ll have in light back-pack.

Hi Deimante, I’m not aware of any limitation on bringing binoculars along with you. Make sure you visit the Hula nature reserve to see the migrating birds!

Thank you ….going to Israel tomorrow and this is one of the best articles I have found. You relieved some of my anxiety.

Hi Lynette, I hope you’re enjoying Israel! It was unexpectedly stormy yesterday but hopefully, you’ll enjoy some great weather later this week.

I am confused. Everything else I have read said that there is no need for a converter for phones/computers. They have built in converters. You do need adapters. IS your experience different?

Hi Janbo, If you’re coming from the US you definitely need an adapter. You’re right that most phones and laptops can work with 220V. However, not all do, so do check to see if your laptop is wired for 220V or else get a converter (not just an adapter). Also, for anything else, like a hairdryer or CPAP machine, you will definitely need a converter. Hope this helps!

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To learn more about the guidelines about travel to Israel - click here

Frequently Asked Questions

Isn’t Israel a long way away? Not nearly as far as you may think: just 10 hours from New York (it’s quicker to fly from New York to Israel than from New York to Hawaii!), or 14 hours from Los Angeles. There are about ten nonstop flights a day from North America to Israel, on Air Canada, American Airlines/US Airways, Delta, El Al Israel Airlines and United. Plus you can connect to Israel through dozens of European cities.

What documents do I need to travel to Israel? For U.S. and Canadian citizens, all you need is a passport that’s valid at least six months longer than your date of arrival in Israel. (For stays up to three months, you don’t need a visa.) If you’re not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, the same conditions apply to citizens of most western countries, but just to be sure: click here.

Is it safe to travel to Israel? We wouldn’t urge you to come if it wasn’t. Every year between 3 and 4 million tourists vacation in Israel – and apart from those who fall in love with an Israeli – or with Israel – they all go home again safe and sound. The planes of 90+ airlines wouldn’t fly to Israel if it weren’t safe.

I hear there is a security interview before my flight… If you are flying EL AL Israel Airlines (or from Europe on Arkia Israel Airlines or Israir), please know that the security precautions taken by Israeli airlines are the stuff of legend and the envy of the world’s airlines. On check-in for your flights you will be asked a variety of questions during a security interview. Some of the questions may seem un-PC, intrusive, irrelevant or repetitive. Just answer truthfully, go with the flow and don’t lose your cool. Remember, the questions are designed to protect you and your fellow passengers. When you leave Israel, the departure process is identical to that outlined above for all airlines.

What about health, medicines, vaccinations? Israel is an ultra-modern country with the world’s highest number of doctors per capita, and a health and hospital system that is the envy of the world. No vaccinations are required to visit Israel (unless you have recently been in an area where there have been epidemics of yellow fever, cholera or ebola). You can buy most standard over-the-counter equivalent of North American drugs in Israel. You can also bring supplies of your standard prescription drugs with you. (If you need to bring syringes and vials of medicine – bring along a letter from your doctor attesting to your needs, just in case.) If you need to see a doctor in Israel, check with your hotel concierge. Travel insurance (including medical coverage) is always recommended for all foreign travel.)

What to wear? Like almost everywhere in the world, casual is the "rule" for everyday sightseeing. Bring good walking shoes or sneakers and "layers." Israelis (especially women) like to be “elegant casual” on evenings in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Some religious shrines require modest dress (arms and legs covered, and, occasionally, no pants for women). Don't forget your swimsuit and, for the Dead Sea, plastic shoes or aqausox.

What about money? The Israeli currency is the Shekel (officially “New Israeli Shekel”), worth around 30 cents. Click here for the current conversion rate. On arrival in Israel, it’s a good idea to use your bank-card to withdraw some Shekels from the ATM in the arrival-halls at Ben Gurion - or change small amounts of dollars/or travelers’ checks at a bank or your hotel. There are ATM machines all over Israel and credit cards are widely accepted.

Electricity Almost all hotel rooms are equipped with hairdryers, and all have shaver sockets. For other appliances, Israel's electricity is 220V A/C, single phase 50-cycles; 110V-220V transformers can be used. Israeli outlets have three prongs, but European two-prong adapters usually work. If you don’t have an adapter that seems to work, call the hotel’s front desk or visit a hardware store.

Keeping in touch Most hotels have free wi-fi in the lobby, and some hotels provide it free in the room. Many hotels also have Business Centers where you can access e-mail and the internet without charge. American cell-phones that work overseas will work in Israel too. Israel is 6 or 7 hours ahead of the East Coast of the USA depending on the season.

Temperatures Temperatures can vary widely so just pack for the "right" weather and you'll be fine. Seasons overlap of course, but general guidelines are:

SUMMER (Jun/Jul/Aug/early Sep): Temperatures in the high 80º's, 90º's. Tel Aviv, and Tiberias will be hot and humid (like New York or Miami). Jerusalem is dryer and cooler, particularly at night. Masada and Eilat are extremely hot (110º+!)...but dry. There won't be a drop of rain.

SHOULDERS (late Mar/Apr/May/late Sep/Oct/Nov): Daytime temperatures will be very pleasant: 75º-ish in most of the country (but hotter at the Red and Dead Seas). Jerusalem will be in the 70º's, 50º's in the evening. There'll be some rain - nothing torrential.

WINTER (Dec/Jan/Feb/early Mar): Winter weather can fluctuate. Some winters are mild and sunny, some severe and overcast. There's often heavy rain and, in January and February, even snow sometimes. It'll probably be in the 50º's, 60º's most places, but in Jerusalem and the Galilee in the forties, and cold at night.

Getting around BUS : Israel has one of the world’s best and most inexpensive bus systems, with almost every city, town, village and settlement connected to the system. Click here for schedules and prices.

TRAIN : High speed trains link Ben Gurion Airport with Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Haifa, and there are fast and, efficient and inexpensive train service throughout much of the country. Rail travel is inexpensive and very easy to navigate. Click for full information.

FLIGHTS : Tel Aviv and Eilat are connected by multiple flights daily aboard Arkia, El Al and Israir, and there are also flights to Haifa and the Galilee.

TAXIS : There are taxis available in the cities, and taxi drivers are also happy to take you between cities. Check the price before you start your journey.

SHARED TAXIS : Shared taxis or “Sherut” are very popular. There are “Sherut” stations throughout the cities. Ask at your hotel for the nearest Sherut stand.

CAR RENTAL : Most international car rental groups have offices in Israel – and there are excellent Israeli car rental firms too. Your American or Canadian drivers’ license is valid in Israel.

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• Medication Names in Israel

To get medication can be confusing for travellers and expats in Israel. As every country has its own regulations, and as even some of the drugs’ names vary from country to country, it also depends on your country of origin how easily you’ll navigate the pharmacy shelves.

There are a number of medications in Israel that have different generic and brand names to the names they have in other parts of the world. Aspirin is Aspirin. But for example the generic name for Paracetamol (as it is called in the UK, Tylenol, Panadol or Dafalgan in the US and Europe) is Acamol in Israel. Valium / Diazepam (UK) is Assival in Israel, The common antibiotics Amoxicillin goes by the name Moxipen in Israel, the common beta blocker Bisoprolol, also known as Zebeta, goes in Israel by the name Cardiloc …

• Download our list of selected common drugs’ names in Israel

In addition to the different names, there may also be some medications in Israel that are not available in the same form (liquid/spray/tablet) as you usually take. Always consult with a doctor or pharmacist for advice on equivalent medications and formations.

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For prescription drugs, you will need to see a doctor in Israel in any case, as prescriptions from abroad are not recognized in pharmacies in Israel (find out more about prescriptions and prescription-refills in the Tel Aviv Doctor Health Blog ).

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Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip travel advice

Latest updates: Safety and security – updated information on risk of attacks on Israeli territory

Last updated: April 22, 2024 10:10 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, israel - avoid non-essential travel.

Avoid non-essential travel to Israel due to the ongoing regional armed conflict and the unpredictable security situation..

West Bank - AVOID ALL TRAVEL

This advisory excludes the following areas where you should avoid non-essential travel:

• Route 443 between Jerusalem and Modi’in

Gaza Strip - AVOID ALL TRAVEL

Israel has expanded ground operations in the Gaza Strip.

If you are in the Gaza Strip, shelter in a secure place until it’s safe for you to leave. We understand that there are connectivity problems in the Gaza Strip. If possible, try to register or update your personal information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive the latest information about departure options. If you are unable to do so, try to contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre .

The Government of Canada’s ability to provide consular services in the Gaza Strip is severely limited.

Jerusalem - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to Jerusalem due to the volatile security situation.

Border with Syria - Avoid all travel

This advisory excludes the following cities where you should exercise a high degree of caution:

• Buq’ata
• Majdal Shams
• Mas’ada

Border with Egypt - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to within 5 km of the border with Egypt due to the volatile security situation.

Border with Lebanon - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to to the area within 5 kilometres of the border with Lebanon due to ongoing military operations.

Border with the Gaza Strip - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to the border with the Gaza Strip due to the risk of rocket and mortar fire, gunfire and military activity.

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Heightened risk of attacks on Israeli territory

Following recent developments in the region, there is a heightened risk of attacks on Israeli territory. The regional security situation remains highly volatile and could escalate escalate at any time.

Drone, rocket and missile attacks occur regularly between Israel and armed groups in neighboring countries such as Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen.

On April 13, 2024, Iran launched a drone and missile attack on Israeli territory, contributing to a significant escalation of tensions in the region.

These attacks can lead to air transportation disruptions due to sudden and prolonged airspace closures. Military interceptions can also cause collateral damage.

If you are in Israel or the West Bank:

• monitor local and international media to stay informed of the rapidly evolving situation
• identify the location of the closest bomb shelter, if available
• if there are no bomb shelters nearby, shelter in a hardened structure away from windows when air raid warning sirens are active
• follow the advice of local authorities, including air-raid sirens and evacuation orders

Ongoing hostilities in Israel and the Gaza Strip

The security situation remains volatile and unpredictable in Israel and the Gaza Strip as hostilities persist between Israel’s military and Gaza-based terrorist groups.

Israeli ground operations and air strikes are expected to continue throughout the Gaza Strip. Missiles and rockets continue to be fired from Gaza towards central and southern Israel.

Military operations in the Gaza Strip pose a risk to civilians, even where they take shelter. Damage to infrastructure has affected communication networks in the Gaza Strip, including the internet.

Violent clashes persist along the border between Israel and Lebanon, including daily rocket and missile fire as well as air strikes. You should avoid all travel within 5 kilometres of the border with Lebanon.

Tensions and violence in the West Bank

Tensions and violence are high in the West Bank. Frequent military operations throughout the West Bank can lead to casualties, including bystanders, and can result in clashes between Israeli security forces and Palestinians, as well as retaliatory attacks.

Extremist Israeli settler violence occurs frequently. There are reports of civilians being attacked, forced under threat to leave their houses or evacuate specific areas. Individuals of Palestinian or Arab descent may be subject to increased scrutiny, detention, and arrest. Israeli checkpoints have increased in number throughout the West Bank. Personal electronic devices may be searched at Israeli military checkpoints, including flying checkpoints. You, your friends, and your family members could face detention, arrest, and/or the suspension or withdrawal of your official permits if you share information deemed to be inaccurate and sensitive by Israel. This includes content shared on social media. Refrain from discussing political views online and be conscious of local laws related to internet use.

If you're in or near an affected area in Israel, the West Bank, or the Gaza Strip:

• assess if you are currently in a safe location
• shelter in place if you can’t leave the area safely
• limit your movements
• remain extremely cautious
• monitor local and international media to get the latest information
• try to keep your phone charged
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Canada’s response to the crisis in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip

Assisted departure options

Canada continues to offer assistance to Canadian citizens, permanent residents and eligible family members in Gaza.

Canadian citizens and permanent residents, and their eligible family members, currently in Gaza and wishing to leave should contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre .

Canadian officials put forward names of Canadians and permanent residents, as well as their eligible family members, to the responsible authorities for approval to exit the Gaza Strip through the Rafah border crossing. Global Affairs Canada will contact individual Canadians and permanent residents, as well as their eligible family members, when their request to leave has been approved. Global Affairs Canada does not ultimately decide who can leave Gaza.

If you are seeking to leave the Gaza Strip:

• Keep your travel documents and personal belongings with you at all times
• Be ready to travel to the border crossing on short notice

The situation at the Rafah border crossing remains unpredictable. You should assess the safety risks for you and your family members before travelling.

Due to infrastructure damage, there could be connectivity problems in the Gaza Strip. If possible, try to register or update your personal information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive the latest information about departure options. If you are unable to do so, try to contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre .

If you're a family member of a Canadian citizen or of a permanent resident who is currently in Gaza, the West Bank or Israel and is unable to register through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service , please contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre .

Border operations

Due to recent events in Israel, West Bank and the Gaza Strip, operations at all land borders may be affected by limited authorized daily crossings, reduced hours or closure on short notice. Israeli authorities may also unexpectedly close checkpoints in the West Bank.

You should verify the status of the border crossings before you travel, if you’re planning to cross the following borders:

• Israel/Jordan
• Israel/Egypt
• West Bank/Jordan
• Gaza Strip/Egypt

Naval blockade

The security situation along the Mediterranean coast of the Gaza Strip remains dangerous. The Israeli Navy regularly patrols the area and the Israeli security forces continue to intercept attempts to breach Israel’s naval blockade.

These incidents have resulted in:

• deportations

In cases of deportation, local authorities are not obliged to notify the Canadian Embassy in Tel Aviv nor the Representative Office of Canada in Ramallah.  As a result, Canadian officials may not be able to provide you with consular assistance. 

• Avoid travelling to the Gaza Strip 
• Don’t attempt to break the naval blockade 

Border areas

Border areas with Israel are particularly dangerous and heavily guarded. Landmines are present in certain areas along Israel’s borders. Some minefields have not been clearly marked or fenced. 

Militant activity close to the Israeli barrier in the Golan Heights makes the area extremely dangerous and unstable.

Despite the United Nations-monitored buffer zone between Israel and Syria in the Golan Heights, cross-border gunfire and rocket fires occur with little or no warning. The Israel Defence Forces also conduct military operations in the area, including air strikes.

• Don’t approach the Israeli barrier along the border with Syria in the Golan Heights
• Monitor local media for information on the latest incidents
• Don’t travel east of Highway 98 except to the following cities: 
• Buq’ata 
• Mas’ada 
• Majdal 
• Ghajar 

Egypt 

The border area with Egypt is dangerous due to military operations and smuggling activities.

The Israeli Defence Forces regularly patrols the area to intercept drug smugglers resulting in frequent armed clashes.

The security situation can also deteriorate rapidly due to instability and the risk of terrorist attacks in northern Sinai.

Don’t drive on: 

• south of the intersection of highways 10 and 12
• between Eilat and the Netafim passage

The highways are subject to closure by Israeli authorities without warning.

If you’re planning to travel near the border with Egypt despite this advisory:

• expect roadblocks and checkpoints
• be aware of your surroundings  
• monitor local media to determine where military activity is occurring  

Lebanon 

There is no official international border between Israel and Lebanon. The United Nations observe the “Blue Line,” which separates the two countries, in addition to a fence constructed by Israel on its side of the Blue line. There are sporadic clashes between Israeli and Lebanese armies patrolling along the Blue line.

Landmines are present in the area.

Terrorist groups based in southern Lebanon have fired several rockets from Lebanon into northern Israel, resulting in retaliatory air strikes by the Israel Defence Forces. Further incidents could occur without notice.

Rockets fired from Lebanon have targeted areas near several cities in northern Israel, including:

• Kiryat Shmona

There are ongoing military operations in the following areas:

• Kfar Shouba Hills
• Shebaa Farms

If you choose to travel near the border with Lebanon despite this advisory:

• remain cautious at all times
• monitor local media for any active security alerts
• follow the advice of local authorities

Confrontations and clashes can occur in areas of Jerusalem, including parts of the Old City. Jerusalem has also seen an increased number of terrorist attacks targeting civilians.

During periods of imposed movement restrictions and on religious holidays, exacerbated tensions can lead to security incidents.

There are periodic clashes near the Al-Aqsa Mosque Mosque on the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount, especially during Ramadan.

• Avoid travel to the Old City during periods of exacerbated tensions
• Travel in groups
• Always dress conservatively

The situation remains unpredictable in the West Bank. Tensions have increased in various areas. Violent clashes between Israeli settlers, Palestinians and Israeli defence and security forces frequently occur. Incidents of violence often occur along major roadways and intersections where passing vehicles may be subject to random stops at checkpoints or targeted with stone-throwing and other forms of vandalism.

There are multiple Israeli military checkpoints throughout the West Bank, where there is a greater threat of violent confrontations. Areas in the vicinity of the barrier separating Israel and the West Bank are particularly high-risk.

Due to recent events in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, local authorities may close or restrict access to checkpoints without notice.

Frequent Israeli security operations target individuals in cities and villages throughout the West Bank. There is risk of injury to bystanders during these operations. These incidents occur most frequently in: 

• Hebron 
• Jenin 
• Nablus 

Although violence is usually not common in the cities of Bethlehem, Jericho and Ramallah, there is an increase in violent incidents, especially clashes involving Palestinians, Israeli settlers, the Israeli Security Forces and the Palestinian Authority security forces. 

If you are travelling to the West Bank despite the advisory in effect:

• consider alternate travel arrangements in case of a rapid deterioration in the security situation
• avoid travelling at night
• monitor local and international media
• follow the advice of local authorities 
• register and maintain contact with the Representative Office of Canada in Ramallah 

Politically motivated violence

Politically motivated violence occurs regularly throughout Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.  

Previous incidents resulting in injuries and deaths include: 

• stabbings  
• mob violence
• vehicle ramming  
• stone-throwing at vehicles  

During your stay:

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times 
• Monitor news reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities

Terrorism 

There is a threat of terrorism. In the past few years, there has been an increase in deadly attacks targeting civilians throughout Israel. 

Terrorist incidents causing numerous deaths and injuries have occurred in a variety of locations, including: 

• Beersheba 
• Eilat 
• Haifa 
• Jerusalem 
• Netanya 
• Tel Aviv 

Further attacks are likely. 

Targets could include: 

• government buildings, including schools 
• places of worship 
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks 
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres,markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners 

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant during:

•  sporting events
•  public celebrations
• religious holidays, such as:
• Rosh Hashanah 
• Yom Kippur 
• Pesach (Passover) 
• Ramadan 

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks. 

Rocket fire

Cities across Israel may be targeted by rocket fire from the Gaza Strip or from Lebanon. 

Rockets fired from the Gaza Strip have reached Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, and have also struck close to Haifa, located approximately 150 km north of the Gaza Strip border. 

The crime rate is relatively low in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Despite an important presence of security personnel in major cities, petty crime may still occur in urban and touristic areas and on beaches. There have been reports of:

• pickpocketing
• purse snatching
• theft of passports, credit cards and other valuables

There’s an increase in car thefts.

• make sure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• make sure that your wallet, money and valuables are out of sight, particularly in crowded tourist areas 
• avoid carrying large amounts of cash 
• avoid showing signs of affluence 
• don’t leave luggage or valuables in a vehicle and always park your vehicle in secure facilities 
• keep your car doors locked and windows closed at all times 

Fraud  

Credit card and ATM fraud may occur. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards: 

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others 
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business 
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature 
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN 
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements 

Cybercrime occurs. Online scams and investment fraud against individuals are on the rise in Israel. 

• Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks 
• Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites 
• Be wary of unsolicited emails offering enticing business 
• Never click a suspicious link in an email or text message asking for your credit card details 

Overseas fraud

Demonstrations and strikes

Planned and unplanned demonstrations occur regularly.

Demonstrators frequently gather across Israel to express opposition to the government in place. These demonstrations and strikes often result in disruptions to services and public transportation. They sometimes lead to violent incidents, such as vandalism and clashes between demonstrators and police. Security forces sometimes use tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place 
• Follow the instructions of local authorities 
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations 

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Outages 

Service outages are frequent in the Gaza Strip. This includes disruptions in: 

• telecommunications, including phones and Internet 
• power  
• water services 

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.  

Advice for women travellers

Water activities 

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Tidal changes and strong winds can cause dangerous riptides.  

• Never swim alone
• Always obey warning flags at beaches 
• Keep a safe distance from boats and restricted areas 
• Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings 
• Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks 
• Follow the advice of the local authorities 

Useful links

• Rules of behavior on the beach – Israeli Ministry of Interior 
• Water safety abroad

Road safety 

Road safety can vary considerably in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.  

Road conditions  

Although most roads in Israel are in good condition, many roads in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank are in poor condition.

During the winter months, precipitation can cause difficult driving conditions and road closures across the territory. 

Driving may also be dangerous due to:

• traffic jams and heavy traffic
• narrow, winding and mountainous roads
• flash floods in some regions

Driving habits  

There is a high rate of road accidents due to dangerous driving habits across the territory. Drivers often drive at excessive speed and don’t always respect the right of way, especially in roundabouts.

It’s mandatory to have a high visibility vest and a warning triangle kit in your car. If you must stop on the side of the road and get out of your car, you must wear the vest and use the triangles according to the safety instructions provided.

If you plan to drive: 

• always drive defensively
• plan your trip in advance, especially if you are visiting a rural area 
• always carry a cell phone and charger 
• familiarize yourself with the route before you travel  

Checkpoints 

There are security checkpoints across the territory, mainly in the West Bank.

The Israel Defence Forces control access to the West Bank through a series of security checkpoints and the Palestinian Authority police may do so within their jurisdiction. Following incidents of politically motivated violence, the government of Israel may also establish additional checkpoints without warning and increase the intensity of vehicle checks. Additional measures may include frequent and extended closures of checkpoints at the discretion of Israeli Security Forces.

Officers may ask to see your valid documents. There is no guarantee that you may pass through security checkpoints even if you have a valid visa and authorization to enter.

During periods of religious holidays, checkpoint and border-crossing hours of operation are subject to change.

If travelling by car during your stay: 

• expect multiple roadblocks and checkpoints
• be prepared to present your identification documents 
• don’t pass through checkpoints without stopping, even if they appear unattended 
• follow instructions of police or military officers if you get stopped

Public transportation

Buses .

The bus system is reliable. However, violent incidents occur occasionally in public buses and at bus stops. Attacks have resulted in deaths and injuries in the past.  

If you’re travelling by bus during your stay: 

• be aware of your surroundings at all times 
• stay behind bollards or behind the bus stop while waiting
• stand away from large groups of people 
• notify the driver of any suspicious objects or persons   

Trains 

The train network is extensive. It covers most of the territory and links major cities, such as Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem. The Gaza Strip and some parts of the West Bank are not covered. In order to access train stations, you will have to pass a security check.

The Light Rail in Jerusalem is considered safe from Mount Herzl station up to French Hill station. You should avoid travelling through stations further north.

Trains in Israel are generally modern, clean and frequent.

If you’re travelling by train:

• be vigilant
• avoid travelling alone at night
• allow extra time to go through security checks
• validate your ticket to avoid fines

Taxis 

Taxis are generally reliable in Israel and the West Bank.  

In the West Bank, taxis are the easiest way of moving around.

Mobile applications are also available. 

If you’re taking a taxi:

• never use shared taxis
• negotiate the fare in advance

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Israel, the West Bank or the Gaza Strip.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Business visa: not required Student visa: not required Work visa: required

The Government of Israel issues an entry card on arrival.

You will need your entry card to enter the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.

Keep it in a secure place to avoid complications upon leaving Israel.

Land travel restrictions

The Government of Israel tightly controls checkpoint crossings within the West Bank and to the Gaza Strip.

Security-related closures can severely restrict entry to and exit from these areas, even for persons possessing valid entry and exit permits.

 Large crowds may gather due to:

• limited hours of operations
• unannounced travel restrictions
• extended closures

This may increase risks to your personal safety.

Travel to and from West Bank

The West Bank is divided into three administrative divisions, which fall under varying degrees of administrative and security control between Palestinian and Israeli authorities.

Israel sets out the entry and exit requirements for the West Bank. In some circumstances, Israeli authorities may deny you entry into the West Bank.

You are required to obtain permits with strict conditions for: 

• short-term visits
• professional, academic or volunteering purposes
• temporary residence for spouses

These new procedures apply to all foreign nationals. As a result, you may need a specific type of visa to enter the West Bank based on your purpose of travel.

If you intend to travel to the West Bank:

• contact Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the closest Israeli embassy to find out which type of permit you need to apply for
• ensure that you have the proper and up-to-date identification, travel documentation and authorization to obtain your permit
• plan your visit accordingly and apply well in advance to avoid delays.
• Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada
• Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Travel to and from Gaza Strip

The Erez border crossing, controlled by Israel, is currently closed. There are no options other than the Rafah border crossing, controlled by Egypt, to enter or exit the Gaza Strip.

Due to the ongoing conflict, entry to and exit from the Gaza Strip is currently extremely limited.

Travel to and from Jordan

As a Canadian citizen, you may travel to and from Jordan through the following border crossings:

• Aqaba (Wadi Araba) near Eilat
• King Hussein Bridge (Allenby) near Jericho 
• Sheikh Hussein Bridge (crossing the Jordan River) near Beit She’an.

You may obtain a visa upon arrival at the following border crossings:

• Sheikh Hussein Bridge (crossing the Jordan River) between Israel and Jordan
• Aqaba (Wadi Araba)

You will need to obtain a visa online or from a Jordanian diplomatic mission prior to travelling if you’re planning on entering Jordan at the King Hussein Bridge (Allenby) border crossing. 

Dual citizenship

Israeli-canadians.

Canadians who were born outside Israel to a mother or father who is an Israeli citizen may be considered citizens of Israel.

Israeli law requires Israeli citizens to:

• enter and exit the country on an Israeli passport
• show proof of military status upon arrival

If you are unsure of your Israeli citizenship or your military status, verify it through the Embassy of Israel to Canada or an Israeli consulate before leaving Canada.

Palestinian-Canadians

As a Palestinian-Canadian citizen, you may be subject to Government of Israel travel regulations for Palestinians. Strict border control policies may prevent you from entering to and exiting from: 

• Israel 
• the West Bank 
• the Gaza Strip 

Anyone registered in the Government of Israel’s West Bank and Gaza Strip population registries, including Canadians of Palestinian descent born in the West Bank or Gaza after 1967, is prohibited from entering Israel through Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion International Airport.

Israeli authorities are currently allowing only a limited number of Palestinians to enter into the West Bank via the Allenby Crossing (King Hussein Bridge). This rule may not apply to Palestinians with dual citizenship.

You may also be subject to Government of Israel travel regulations for Palestinians if you are a Canadian born in another Arab state or if you hold dual Canadian-Arab state citizenship.

Israeli authorities may then ask you to enter and exit Israel on your Arab passport.

If the place of birth listed on the traveller’s passport does not have diplomatic relations with Israel, travellers may be subject to increased security screening at points of entry, including extensive questioning, physical searches and/or denial of entry, which can involve temporary detention before removal.

Regional travel

Some Canadians have been denied entry into Lebanon, Syria and other Arab countries because their passports bore:

• an Israeli visa
• an Israeli border stamp
•  an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel

Other entry requirement

Custom officials may ask to show a return or onward ticket as proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified this country as no longer poliovirus-infected but at high risk of an outbreak . Polio can be prevented by vaccination.

Recommendations:

• Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
• One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Leptospirosis   is a bacterial disease that typically causes fever, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, skin rash and eye infection. The disease is spread through direct contact with urine from infected animals or with urine-contaminated water, soil, or food.

Leptospirosis is a risk in this country, especially when participating in freshwater activities (e.g., swimming, rafting), being in areas with poor sanitation, or having close contact with animals, especially rodents. Most travellers are at low risk. There is no vaccine available for leptospirosis.  Travellers at high risk may wish to consult a health care professional about pre-exposure antibiotics.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

The quality of medical care varies greatly throughout the destination. Very good health care is available in Israel and Jerusalem. Good health care is limited in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Medical facilities may lack of medical supplies and adequately trained professionals.

Medical treatment can be very expensive. Hospitals and doctors usually require immediate payment in cash.  

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Medication 

Some prescription medication may not be available in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.  

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality at destination.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you 
• Always keep your medication in the original container 
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage 
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions 

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Israel are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Israel to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Israeli authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Alcohol 

Although alcohol consumption in public is illegal in the Gaza Strip, you can drink alcohol in certain areas in the West Bank.   Avoid drinking alcohol outside licensed premises in the West Bank.  

Photography 

Photography of sensitive installations is prohibited. This includes: 

• military sites 
• police personnel and installations  

Seek permission before taking photos of people in Muslim or Orthodox Jewish areas.  

Both Israeli authorities and the Palestinian Authority recognize dual citizenship.

However, foreign nationals naturalized citizens of Israel must forfeit their previous citizenship.   

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Israel, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Israel.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Israel, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Israeli court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Israel to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Religious holidays

Some Jewish, Christian and Muslim communities' customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to religious practices and beliefs. 

Tensions between religious groups are higher during religious holidays and may lead to violence. 

There is a risk of assault if you travel by car in the Old City of Jerusalem and conservative neighbourhoods of Israel during Shabbat.

To avoid offending local sensitivities, especially during religious holidays:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect social and religious traditions
• seek permission from people and local authorities before taking photographs

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Israel’s law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

The Gaza Strip’s law criminalizes sexual acts and relationships between persons of the same sex. 

2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be detained based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. They may also be detained and face other charges such as: 

• cross-dressing
• gross indecency
• offence to public morals

2SLGBTQI+ travellers could face up to 10 years of imprisonment. They should carefully consider the risks of travelling to the Gaza Strip.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

You may drive in Israel using your Canadian driver’s license for up to 12 months.

Vehicles with Palestinian licence plates are not permitted to enter Israel unless granted a permit by Israeli authorities in advance. If you are planning to enter the West Bank with a rented vehicle, verify your insurance coverage and permissions with your car rental agency.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Useful links 

• More about the International Driving Permit  
• Driving in Israel – The Association of Americans & Canadians in Israel (AACI)

The currency of Israel is the Israeli Shekel (ILS).

Credit cards are not widely accepted in the Gaza Strip.

The Jordanian dinar (JOD) and the US dollar are also widely accepted throughout the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

ATMs are available, but may not accept Canadian cards.

Earthquakes  

Israel, Jerusalem, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip are located in an active seismic zone.

Even minor earthquakes can cause significant damage.

Earthquakes - What to Do?  

Sandstorms and dust storms  

Sandstorms and dust storms occur in spring and summer in some areas. Sand-laden winds can blow at high speeds for days, creating difficult driving conditions. These storms can also lead to respiratory problems for some individuals.

During a sandstorm: 

• stay indoors 
• keep windows closed
• be prepared to change, interrupt or cancel your trip at any time
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Heavy rains, particularly during winter, can cause flooding and landslides throughout the territory.

Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged. 

• Exercise caution, particularly in areas around major rivers 
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts 
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders 

Wildfires 

Wildfires may occur throughout the territory due to high temperatures and dry conditions, particularly during summer. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke. 

In case of a significant fire: 

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments 
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation 

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 100
• medical assistance: 101
• firefighters: 102

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Representative Office of Canada in Ramallah or the Embassy of Canada to Israel, in Tel Aviv, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

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Safety Advice and Travel Insurance for Israel

Update regarding travel insurance to israel (update: feb. 7, 2024).

Select travel insurance plans for travelers with Israel as their destination country are now available. Previously, they were not available d ue to the current war. Existing policies are not affected unless you hear otherwise from your carrier. Anything related to the hostilities may not be covered. These are all insurer-specific, so check your policy documents for complete details.

Israel Travel Insurance for Visitors

Despite constantly erupting political tensions, Israel attracts millions of visitors each year. Some people visit to experience the sacred sites of three of the world’s major religions. Others come to enjoy the coastal restaurants and famous nightlife of Tel Aviv. Nearly everyone wants to float in the Dead Sea. When visiting, make sure you have travel insurance for Israel . In the last decade, more people have also traveled to Israel for medical tourism in one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the world. Israel’s modern society exists side by side with ongoing political struggles and the ever-present threat of sudden violence. While there have been periods of calm, the region has experienced regular conflict for more than half a century.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Israel?

Yes. Israel requires visitors to have travel insurance when they arrive. You must show proof of your travel insurance, though COVID-19 coverage is no longer required as of May 15, 2023.

Best Travel Insurance for Visitors to Israel

The safety situation in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza can change quickly. The sudden eruption of conflict or a terrorist attack is possible. To prepare, the U.S. State Department recommends that your travel insurance include medical evacuation. For complete peace of mind, it should also cover emergency travel changes and repatriation of remains. International Citizens Insurance can help you find a travel insurance plan that meets all your needs.

The IMG Patriot Travel Insurance plan is a good option for most travelers. For US citizens traveling abroad, you can purchase trip cancellation coverage through the iTravelInsured plan below.

Patriot Platinum Travel Insurance

• Maximum limits up to $8,000,000
• IMG pays 100% of medical expenses in-network
• Evacuation due to Natural Disasters & Political Unrest

iTravelInsured Trip Cancellation Insurance

• Three levels of trip protection for U.S. residents traveling abroad.
• Medical cover, trip cancelation and medical evacuation included.
• Optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage available (LX Plan).

Medical Preparation for Travel to Israel

As with many destinations, Israel may expose you to new illnesses and unfamiliar environments. You may also need to manage existing health issues during your stay. The following information will help you protect your health in Israel.

What Vaccinations Do I Need to Travel to Israel?

Israel does not currently have vaccination requirements for visitors — not even for COVID-19. However, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises all travelers to Israel be up to date on their routine vaccinations (influenza, chickenpox, MMR, DPT), as well as rabies, polio, COVID-19, and others. The CDC also recommends the typhoid vaccine for those planning to go to Gaza or the West Bank.

How to Bring Medications to Israel

Travelers can bring prescription medications for personal use into Israel. Any time you travel internationally, keep prescription medications in the original packaging and packed in your carry-on bag along with the prescriptions from your doctor. You may want to list the generic names of your medications for easier identification by authorities. If your medical condition requires syringes and vials, be sure to travel with a letter from your doctor explaining your medical needs.

Some visitors may need to travel with narcotic or psychotropic drugs to manage a medical condition. The Israeli Ministry of Health allows up to 31 days of each type of drug as long as you have all of the proper documentation. If you are concerned about the legality of your prescription medication in Israel, contact Israel’s embassy or consulate in your current country to confirm.

Standard over-the-counter medications in North America are usually found at local pharmacies in Israel. You may still want to travel with some of the CDC’s Israel packing list recommendations for convenience.

Related: Health Insurance in Israel for Expats

How to Access Medical Care in Israel for Visitors

Israeli law provides all residents with health insurance plans through one of four non-profit companies. Visitors do not qualify for this coverage. They are legally required to arrive with an active travel insurance plan.

Israel has one of the most efficient and highly-ranked healthcare systems in the world. This means you have a variety of options for excellent medical care should you need it. Your travel insurer will provide you with recommendations for medical institutions in Israel. Cross-reference your list with our article on the best hospitals in Israel for expatriates . Sometimes, travel insurance can provide telehealth visits or a translator via phone. English is widely spoken in Israel, especially in the medical field.

In a medical emergency, your condition will determine your care options. Urgent care centers (like Terem, Tel Aviv Doctor, or Bikur Rofeh) operate around the country, with some open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Doctors can write prescriptions and give you referrals for more extensive care.

How to Call an Ambulance in Israel

For more serious emergencies, you can call an ambulance by dialing 101 and Israel’s Magen David Adom ambulance will arrive. If you are in the West Bank or Gaza, it may be a Palestinian Red Crescent Society ambulance that comes. As a visitor not covered by national health insurance, you will be charged for the transportation. You will need to submit the claim to your travel insurance company for reimbursement. The ambulance will likely take you to the nearest hospital with the services you require based on your condition. Your stay will include paying for your care. Emergency rooms in the major cities are crowded. In Tel Aviv, the emergency room wait time could be four hours or more. While care is the same, you can expect Israel’s private hospitals to offer more amenities and services than the public hospitals.

In the event of a disaster or terrorist attack, dialing 101 will alert Magen David Adom (if you are deaf or hearing impaired, send a text to 052-7000-101) or the Palestinian Red Crescent Society. Like the American Red Cross, both of these organizations are members of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and provide ambulance and other medical services during disasters.

Visitors going to the West Bank and Gaza should be aware that hospitals in those areas may lack equipment or be overwhelmed. The U.S. State Department warns that ambulances may be in short supply or not available in Gaza and the West Bank.

Related: Israel Healthcare System

Travel Warnings and Alerts for Israel

The security situation in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza is constantly shifting. Travelers should check the latest travel alerts from government sources leading up to and just before their departure.

It is also wise to check on alerts throughout your stay. The U.S. Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (S.T.E.P.) is an easy way for U.S. travelers to get alerts on a specific country. They can also register their trip with the nearest U.S. embassy.

Other websites that offer up-to-date alerts on Israel include:

• U.S Department of State “Israel, the West Bank and Gaza” page
• Australian Government Smartraveller “Israel and the Palestinian Territories” page
• U.K. Government Foreign Travel Advice “Israel” page
• Government of Canada Travel Advisory “Israel, the West Bank and Gaza Strip” page
• Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs “Israel and the Palestinian Territories” page

The governments of the countries listed above advise their citizens against traveling to Gaza.

Emergency Contact Information for Israel

The following is a guide to the emergency numbers you need to know for Israel.

Emergency Assistance Numbers in Israel

• Police – 100
• Medical Assistance/Ambulance – 101
• Fire Service – 102
• Disaster Victim Identification – 1220 (ZAKA)
• Emotional Crisis Hotline – 1201 (ERAN)
• Rape Crisis & Sexual Abuse – 1202 (Women) 1203 (Men)
• Student Hotline – 1-800-222-003
• Violence Hotline for Students -1204
• Israel Assoc. for Child Protection (ELI) – 1-800-223-966
• 24 Hour Poison Information Center & Hotline at Rambam Hospital – 04-7771900

Israel does not use the United States emergency number 911. However, dialing the United Kingdom emergency number 112 from any GSM mobile phone will connect you with the local emergency line.

Global Medical Plan for Foreigners Residing in Israel

Cigna Global Insurance Plan

• The flexibility to tailor a plan to suit your individual needs
• Access to Cigna Global’s trusted network of hospitals and doctors
• The convenience and confidence of 24/7/365 customer service

Embassy Phone Numbers in Israel

The following is a list of contact information for certain embassies in and near Israel:

• U.S. Embassy Jerusalem 14 David Flusser Street Jerusalem, Israel 93392 + (972) (2) 630-4000 (Main Phone) + (972) (2) 622-7230 (Emergency After-Hours Number – Ask for the Duty Officer) + (972) (3) 519-7551 (Emergency After-Hours Number)U.S. Embassy Tel Aviv Branch 71 HaYarkon Street Tel Aviv, Israel 63903 + (972) (3) 519-7475 (Main Phone) + (972) (3) 519-7575 (Emergency After-Hours Number – Ask for the Duty Officer) + (972) (3) 519-7551 (Emergency After-Hours Number)
• Canada House 3/5 Nirim Street, 4th Floor, Tel Aviv, Israel 6706038 + (972) (3) 636-3300 (Main Phone)
• British Embassy Tel Aviv 192 Hayarkon Street Tel Aviv, Israel 6340502 + (972) (3) 725 1222 (Emergency – After hours, select the emergency option.)
• French Embassy in Israel 112 promenade Herbert Samuel BP 3480 Tel Aviv, Israel 6357231 + (972) (3) 520 85 00 (Main Phone)
• Australian Embassy Israel Bank Discount Tower, 28th Floor, 23 Yehuda Halevi St. Tel Aviv, Israel 6513601 + (972) (3) 693 5000 (Main Phone) + (61) (2) 6261 3305 (Consular Emergency Centre – from outside of Australia)

4 Tips for Safe Travel in Israel

1. stay alert, especially in crowded areas.

Violent attacks happen without warning. In any country, the best way to prepare for the unexpected is by planning ahead. If you know you will be in a crowded area or place of significance (like a tourist site), plan your exits. Stay aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to local authorities. If you feel unsafe, leave immediately. The CDC recommends carrying a card with your blood type, medications and emergency contact numbers in Hebrew and Arabic just in case.

2. Frequently Check Travel Updates

You may not be near the place where an attack or protest happened, but you could still be impacted by resulting new security measures, such as curfews. If you are a U.S. citizen, enroll in the U.S. Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (S.T.E.P.) to receive alerts on Israel throughout your trip.

3. Watch Your Step and Your Belongings

You may be walking over the ruins of ancient structures or hiking through more remote, rocky areas like Appolonia National Park. Wear comfortable shoes and watch where you step to avoid a sprained ankle (or worse), which could spoil your trip. Cities like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv are modern with maintained streets and sidewalks. Still, historic neighborhoods may have unexpected hazards. Pickpocketing is also common, so be mindful of your possessions. Pack important belongings securely to minimize risk.

4. Bring Water and Dress in Comfortable Layers

Israel has a Mediterranean climate to the north and a more arid climate to the south. Its terrain includes mountains, beaches and deserts and it can get very hot in the summer months. Bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and plenty of water when you’re out exploring in dry, hot areas. Dress in layers as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. Layered clothing will also help you quickly adapt to more modest clothing requirements at certain religious buildings and sites.

Israel is Best When You’re Prepared for the Worst

While most visitors will never encounter a violent incident, Israel’s tense geopolitical climate cannot be ignored. Despite the possible threats, visitors will find busy cafes and shops where conversation fills the air in Hebrew, Arabic, English, Yiddish, and more.

Paying attention to the news and the latest government travel advisories is key to making informed travel decisions about Israel. If the situation abruptly changes, your travel insurance can help you cancel a trip before you ever set foot in the country or help you get home quickly. Let International Citizens Insurance help you find the right travel insurance for Israel.

From the Sea of Galilee to the Mediterranean coast, Israel’s ancient history, diverse culture, and complex politics combine to make it a unique destination. Arriving prepared and with the right travel insurance will allow you to absorb the gravity of Israel freely — a place that means as much to those who live there as it does to millions who have yet to make the journey.

Related Articles:

• Best Hospitals in Israel for Foreigners
• Health Insurance in Israel for Foreigners
• Israel’s Healthcare System

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9 Over-the-Counter Medicines You Should Pack for Every Trip

Ashley Rossi

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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Whether due to bad luck or unhealthy habits, I’ve gotten sick on the past few trips I’ve been on, which inspired me to find some travel medications to take with me in the future.

In preparing for a longer international trip, I visited a travel clinic and did some research on the CDC’s website. I was happy to find this checklist for a healthy trip and have included some over-the-counter medicine recommendations below.

It’s worth noting that you may also need some prescription medications (and/or vaccines) for things like malaria and altitude sickness , so if you’re traveling for an extended period of time, participating in a physically active trip, or headed to a remote country, make sure to visit a travel clinic .

Note that I didn’t include any first-aid items on this list because there’s an entirely different packing list for that: Download here .  

Over-the-Counter Diarrhea Medicine: Imodium or Pepto-Bismol

Ah, the most common and arguably most uncomfortable sickness to get when you travel. Though it’s most often caused by contaminated food or water, traveler’s diarrhea can happen anywhere—so it’s a good idea to bring an anti-diarrheal medication no matter the destination or type of trip.

Buy: Imodium or Pepto-Bismol

Over–the-Counter Antacid: TUMS or Pepcid

The last thing anyone wants to do on vacation is walk around with a stomachache or heartburn, especially with all the new food and drink you might want to try. Carry antacids on your trip and you can overindulge all you want.

Buy: TUMS or Pepcid  

Over-the-Counter Antihistamine: Claritin or Zyrtec

You can never be sure when allergies are going to creep up on you while traveling, especially if you’re headed to another climate. Combat its symptoms, including a stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing, by packing this travel medication.

Buy: Claritin or Zyrtec

Over-the-Counter Motion Sickness Medicine: Bonine or Dramamine

Nothing can ruin your travels quite like motion sickness on a plane, train, bus, or cruise ship. Instead of confining yourself to a trip of nausea and dizziness, bring medicine to travel like a champ. Benadryl, an antihistamine, can also work for motion sickness, but watch out for drowsiness.

Buy: Bonine or Dramamine

Over-the-Counter Cough Drops or Suppressant: Ricola or Halls

You’re at an increased risk for getting sick while traveling as your germ exposure skyrockets. Cough drops can bring temporary relief to a sore or ticklish throat and silence your coughs so you don’t annoy fellow travelers.

Buy: Ricola or Halls  

Over–the-Counter Decongestant: Sinex or Sudafed

Nobody likes traveling while congested. Whether it’s a cold or allergies, these over-the-counter medicines can relieve congestion and clear your head. Just make sure you pick a non-drowsy kind if you’re taking this during the day.

Buy: Sinex  or Sudafed

Over–the-Counter Pain and Fever Medicine: Tylenol or Advil

Instead of lying in bed all day, take pain and fever medicine so you can focus on being a tourist. These over-the-counter medicines can help with common travel ailments such as achy feet or jet lag-induced headaches.

Buy: Tylenol or Advil

Over-the-Counter Mild Laxative: MiraLAX or Dulcolax

All I’ll say is that you won’t regret packing these.

Buy: MiraLAX or Dulcolax  

Over-the-Counter Mild Sedative or Sleep Aid: ZzzQuil or Tylenol PM

Maybe you’re staying in a noisy place or you’re so jet-lagged you can’t sleep. Either way, these sleep aids will make sure you’re refreshed and ready for a day of travel.

Buy: ZzzQuil or Tylenol PM

Pin the Over-the-Counter Medical Travel List:

What to Pack on Your Next Trip

Women’s business casual outfit for travel with carry-on, shop the look.

Ribbed Puff Sleeve Tee

Dress Pant Yoga Pants

Stainless Steel Water Bottle

20-Inch & 28-Inch Trunk Rolling Luggage Set

How to Pack your Carry-On

Medium Carry-On

Wireless Headphones

Beneath a Scarlet Sky: A Novel

Water Bottle

Men’s Comfortable Work Business Outfit for a Flight

Tech Button Down Shirt

Commuter Pants

Chrono Leather Watch

Leather Jeans Belt

Cycia Shoes

Women’s “ridiculously comfortable travel clothes that don’t sacrifice style” outfit 1.

Cozy Up T-shirt

High Rise Skinny Jeans

Bracelet Watch

Chain Crossbody Bag

Baryky Boot

Women’s european packing guide.

Magnetic Phone Case

Men’s amazon-based casual outfit.

Stretch Chino Shorts

Wrist Watch

Laptop Backpack

Running Shoe

Carry-on options for your next trip 1.

Expandable Suitcase Spinner

Metro Backpack

Canvas Tote

Women’s semi-fancy, formal summer dress outfit.

Jewel Quartz Earrings

Tie Neck Satin Dress

Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter

Leather Wallet

Nicole Pumps

Carry-on options for your next trip 2.

22-Inch Packing Case

Wheeled Carry-On Duffel

22-Inch Rolling Spinner Carry-On

Men’s outfit for walking to tijuana.

Paper Plane Print Tee

No Sweat Relaxed Fit Shorts

Vintage Canvas Backpack

More from SmarterTravel:

• Must-Pack Medications for Travel
• What to Do If You’re Caught in an Emergency Situation Abroad
• The Ultimate Checklist for Traveling Abroad

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on   Twitter   and   Instagram   for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

Alyssa Lukpat also contributed to this article.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2018. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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EMA Care Blog

Prescription medication in israel.

Prescription medications in Israel can oftentimes be different than in other countries.   Whether planning a trip or sending a child for a Gap Year , understanding the availability of medication locally can help guide decision making and planning for health needs.

Here are 10 rules about prescription medication in Israel:

• Some medications are not available here.   Medications in Israel must be approved through a lengthy bureaucratic and often political process.  Some medications, deemed either unnecessary or too expensive, or too rarely needed – are simply not available.
• Medications may come in different doses.   For example, thyroid medication is not available in 25mcg increments.  This requires mild dosing adjustments, but can be initially frustrating for people who need these doses.  Some medication available in long-acting forms may not be available in these forms in Israel.  This can include blood pressure medication, seizure medications, and other critical medications.  This can lead to serious medication issues for people who are in Israel and requires careful adjustment and monitoring.
• Generic prescription drug names are more common, and many brand names are different or unavailable.  For example, Fosamax is called Fosalan in Israel.  This is not such a big deal, but it can be confusing , especially for older adults transferring prescription medications to Israel.
• Some prescription medications must be prescribed by a specialist physician , as opposed to a family doctor or pediatrician.  This can include some psychiatric medications, including some ADHD drugs, and biological medications.
• Some Over the Counter (OTC) medications require prescriptions here.  This can include medications for yeast infections, heartburn, allergies, and topical preparations.  Regulations are slowly loosening for this (emphasis on “slowly”).
• Prescription medications may be available in Israel that are not available in the US or Europe.  Israel requires approval from either local authorities, the FDA (USA), or the European Medicines Agency (EMA – not related to EMA Care!).
• Most prescription medication cannot be obtained in increments on more than 1 month’s supply.  In the US and elsewhere, you can usually get a 3-month prescription filled.  In Israel, few medications can be filled with more than a 30-day supply… so you will need to make monthly trips to the pharmacy.
• Prescription medications are cheaper in Israel than they are in the US , because of government subsidies.  Ironically, most OTC medications cost much more than in other countries.  Obviously, if you pay a small copayment only, it will not be cheaper here for brand name drugs.  This compares full cost to full cost.  For example, many commonly prescribed medications cost 13nis only, or a bit over 3 US dollars.
• Medications are only available at pharmacies.   In the US, you can get pharmaceuticals at supermarkets and even gas stations.  In Israel, only pharmacies sell pharmaceuticals making it less convenient and a more tightly regulated market.
• Prescriptions must be written only by locally licensed physicians.   Understandably, foreign prescriptions are not allowed in Israel.  Israel does not give authority to nurse practitioners or physician assistants to write prescriptions freely, unlike dozens of other countries.  EMA Care is hoping that this will change in the future.

If you have to bring in medication from abroad for your child or yourself

...there is a sometimes lengthy bureaucratic process .  It can be done, but it can take some time.  EMA Care has vast experience helping clients ship their prescription medication into Israel, and can help navigate the system.  EMA Care recommends that you plan well in advance and that you have a backup plan in case things get tied up in shipping. EMA Care professionals coordinate  with your prescribers at home and physicians in Israel to assure that transition to local prescription medication is smooth.    Managing medication is one of our specialties! We can also guide you in advance of any trip or visit to Israel regarding the availability of medication and alternative approaches, such as shipping your medication here.  We can help order special medications here through pharmacies and assure that your dosing is as prescribed. EMA Care is here to help navigate you or your child through the Israeli healthcare system.   When you or your child is sick in Israel, you don’t have to be alone.  Our professionals will advocate for you or your child to get the best care available.

EMA Care  provides medical concierge, case management, and patient advocacy services to tourists, students and residents of Israel.   We can be reached at  [email protected] .  Schedule your free consultation today.

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Depends on what you define as a controlled substance. I think what you mean is a controlled substance under a specific schedule.

If it's something like oxycontin or Vicodin then having a copy of the rx along with a letter from the doc should be more than enough.

Follow drill-n-fill's advice - it's always better to have a letter from your doctor backing you up - also, a good idea to have an extra written prescription in case you and your meds get separated and you need to pick up a new supply.

Also be sure to carry your med's in the carry-on and not checked luggage.

I doubt that you will be questioned if you bring in a reasonable amount of pills.

If you can, when you come back, please return to this thread and tell us your experience.

Thanks again everyone!

Turkish Air is a fine company. If you have ordered a special meal remind the staff when you board. They do not pay much attention to that (my own expereince).

Yes, we vegetarian shoshi, so very good advice, thanks!! :)

Have a safe journey and enjoy your visit.

Douglas Duckett

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Can you pack your meds in a pill case and more questions answered

One of the more popular questions we get from travelers is: “Can I travel with my medication?” The answer is yes, with some qualifiers. Here are a few tips that you might find helpful.

• Medication in liquid form is allowed in carry-on bags in excess of 3.4 ounces in reasonable quantities for the flight. It is not necessary to place medically required liquids in a zip-top bag. However, you must tell the officer that you have medically necessary liquids at the start of the screening checkpoint process. Medically required liquids will be subject to additional screening that could include being asked to open the container.
• You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened.
• You can travel with your medication in both carry-on and checked baggage. It’s highly recommended you place these items in your carry-on in the event that you need immediate access.
• TSA does not require passengers to have medications in prescription bottles, but states have individual laws regarding the labeling of prescription medication with which passengers need to comply.
• Medication is usually screened by X-ray; however, if a passenger does not want a medication X-rayed, he or she may ask for a visual inspection instead. This request must be made before any items are sent through the X-ray tunnel.
• Nitroglycerin tablets and spray (used to treat episodes of angina in people who have coronary artery disease) are permitted and have never been prohibited.

Middle East Crisis Israel Appears to Soften Stance in Cease-Fire Talks

• Share full article
• Destroyed buildings in Rafah on Monday. Associated Press
• Relatives and supporters of Israeli hostages protest in Tel Aviv on Monday. Ohad Zwigenberg/Associated Press
• Palestinians flee after a strike in Nuseirat in central Gaza. Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
• Mourning relatives killed overnight in Rafah. Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
• Looking at a damaged building in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on Monday. Hatem Khaled/Reuters
• Posters of kidnapped Israeli hostages in Tel Aviv. Shannon Stapleton/Reuters
• A Palm Sunday service at a Greek Orthodox church in Gaza City. Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
• Children at a makeshift movie theater set up among the tents in Rafah on Sunday. Haitham Imad/EPA, via Shutterstock
• Israeli soldiers resting outside the border with southern Gaza. Amir Cohen/Reuters

Israel is open to a truce involving an initial release of 33 hostages, officials say.

Israel’s latest offer would accept fewer hostages to be freed during the first phase of a new truce in Gaza, according to three Israeli officials, offering a hint of hope for cease-fire negotiations that could restart as soon as Tuesday.

For months, Israel had demanded that Hamas release at least 40 hostages — women, older people and those who are seriously ill — in order to secure a new truce. Now the Israeli government is prepared to settle for only 33, according to the officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity in order to discuss the sensitive matter.

The change was prompted partly by the fact that Israel now believes that some of the 40 have died in captivity , according to one of the officials.

Antony J. Blinken, the U.S. secretary of state, said at the World Economic Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday that Israel had made an “extraordinarily generous” offer and that Hamas alone stood in the way of a deal. David Cameron, the British foreign minister, said at the same conference that the offer included a sustained 40-day cease-fire and the release of potentially thousands of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the Israeli hostages.

Sameh Shoukry, Egypt’s foreign minister, said at the conference that he was “hopeful” about the latest cease-fire proposal, but did not say what it involved or who had proposed it.

“The proposal has taken into account the positions of both sides,” Mr. Shoukry said, adding that “we are waiting to have a final decision.”

The shift has raised expectations that Hamas and Israel might be edging closer to sealing their first truce since a weeklong cease-fire in November, when Hamas released 105 captives in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners. A senior Hamas official, Izzat al-Rishq, said on social media on Monday that Hamas was studying a new Israeli proposal, but did not say what the proposal was.

Hamas and its allies captured roughly 240 Israelis and foreigners in their attack on Oct. 7, which prompted Israel to go to war in Gaza. More than 130 hostages are believed to still be held in Gaza, but some are thought to have died.

Negotiations over a new pause, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, have stalled for months over disagreements about the number of hostages and prisoners who should be exchanged in a future deal. Another obstacle has been whether Israel would allow civilians from northern Gaza who fled the Israeli invasion to return to their homes, and how many would be permitted to do so.

The length of a cease-fire has also been a key stumbling block. Hamas wants it to be permanent, while Israel wants another temporary pause so that it could still send troops into Rafah, the last major Gazan city under Hamas control, though one where more than a million displaced Palestinians have sought shelter. Far-right members of Israel’s governing coalition have threatened to bring down Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government if the war ends without Hamas’s total defeat.

A mid-ranking Israeli delegation is planning to fly to Cairo on Tuesday to restart talks mediated by Egypt, but only if Hamas also agrees to attend, according to two of the Israeli officials. A senior Hamas official said that a delegation was already in Cairo on Monday.

At the economic forum in Saudi Arabia, Mr. Cameron, the British foreign secretary, said something else must happen for the conflict to end: “The people responsible for Oct. 7, the Hamas leadership, would have to leave Gaza.”

Vivian Nereim and Edward Wong contributed reporting from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

— Patrick Kingsley and Adam Rasgon reporting from Jerusalem

Biden speaks to the leaders of Egypt and Qatar to press for Hamas’s agreement on a new cease-fire.

President Biden spoke on Monday with the leaders of Egypt and Qatar as he sought to increase pressure on Hamas to accept a deal that would result in a temporary cease-fire in the war in Gaza and the release of some of the hostages held there.

According to a statement from the office of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt, he and Mr. Biden discussed the negotiations and Egypt’s efforts to broker a cease-fire. They also reiterated their support for a two-state solution, discussed the importance of containing the conflict to the region and emphasized their opposition to a military escalation in the Palestinian city of Rafah, which Israel seems poised to invade.

Mr. Biden also spoke on Monday with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the emir of Qatar. According to the White House, Mr. Biden urged the Qatari leader “to exert all efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas,” saying that “this is now the only obstacle” to an immediate cease-fire.

Mr. al-Sisi and Mr. al-Thani have been prime intermediaries with Hamas through months of fitful negotiations to reach a deal to halt the hostilities, and Mr. Biden hopes they will prod the group’s leader, Yahya Sinwar, to accept the U.S.-brokered proposal on the table. On Sunday, Mr. Biden spoke with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel.

Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, expressed a hopeful view of the prospects for an agreement. “In recent days, there has been progress in talks,” she told reporters at the White House.

Like other American officials, Ms. Jean-Pierre said that Hamas, not Israel, was the obstacle to an agreement.

“The onus is indeed on Hamas,” she said. “There is a deal on the table, and they need to take it.”

— Peter Baker reporting from Washington

Blinken meets with Arab officials to discuss Gaza and postwar plans.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Arab officials on Monday in Saudi Arabia about the war between Israel and Hamas and the difficult issues it has created, from humanitarian aid to hostages. Mr. Blinken plans to travel to Jordan and Israel on Tuesday.

After landing in Riyadh, the Saudi capital, shortly after dawn, Mr. Blinken met with Prince Faisal bin Farhan, the foreign minister of Saudi Arabia, and then with foreign ministers and a top foreign policy adviser from five other Arab nations in the Persian Gulf that, along with Saudi Arabia, form the Gulf Cooperation Council. Prince Faisal was also part of that second meeting. On Monday night Mr. Blinken met with Saudi Arabia’s crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman.

The State Department listed the cease-fire and hostage issues first in the summary it released of Mr. Blinken’s one-on-one meeting with the prince. The two “discussed ongoing efforts to reach an immediate cease-fire in Gaza that would secure the release of hostages held by Hamas,” the department said.

The two diplomats also talked about greater regional integration and “a pathway to a Palestinian state with security guarantees for Israel,” the summary said. That was a reference to negotiations over a broad deal that would involve the United States, Saudi Arabia, Israel and Palestinian representatives agreeing to terms that would result in the creation of a Palestinian state and greater diplomatic recognition for Israel in the region.

Mr. Blinken planned to meet with Arab and European officials in a group later on Monday to talk about plans for rebuilding Gaza, even though Israel is still carrying out its war there and has not stepped back from its difficult — and perhaps impossible — goal of fully eradicating Hamas.

Saudi Arabia is hosting a three-day meeting of the World Economic Forum, and top Arab officials, including Mr. Blinken’s diplomatic counterparts, are attending the event in Riyadh. The gathering includes senior ministers from Qatar and Egypt, the two Arab mediators in multiple rounds of talks over a potential cease-fire between Israel and Hamas .

“The quickest way to bring this to an end is to get to a cease-fire and the release of hostages,” Mr. Blinken said in an onstage talk with Borge Brende, president of the World Economic Forum. “Hamas has before it a proposal that is extraordinarily generous on the part of Israel. And at the moment, the only thing standing between the people of Gaza and a cease-fire is Hamas.”

“I’m hopeful they will make the right decision and we can have a fundamental change in the dynamic,” he added.

Mr. Blinken and other top aides of President Biden have also been trying to push for a long-term political solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which is where the broader deal comes in. In a call meant to pave the way for Mr. Blinken’s trip, his seventh to the region since the war began, Mr. Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel spoke by phone on Sunday afternoon for nearly an hour.

The two leaders discussed “increases in the delivery of humanitarian assistance into Gaza,” according to a White House statement released after the call, and Mr. Biden repeated his warning against an Israeli ground assault on Rafah in southern Gaza. He also reviewed with Mr. Netanyahu the negotiations over a hostage release.

In their best-case scenario, the Biden administration envisions Saudi Arabia and perhaps a few other Arab nations agreeing to normalize diplomatic relations with Israel. In exchange, Saudi Arabia would receive advanced weapons and security guarantees, including a mutual defense treaty , from the United States and a commitment for U.S. cooperation on a civilian nuclear program in the kingdom .

For its part, Israel would have to commit to a concrete pathway to the founding of a Palestinian nation, with specific deadlines, U.S. and Saudi officials say.

“I think it’s clear that in the absence of a real political horizon for the Palestinians, it’s going to be much harder, if not impossible, to really have a coherent plan for Gaza itself,” Mr. Blinken said at the public talk on Monday.

Prince Faisal said Sunday that Saudi officials hoped to discuss concrete steps toward creating a Palestinian state during Mr. Blinken’s visit to Riyadh. Calling the war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza “a complete failing of the existing political system,” he told a news conference that the kingdom’s government believes that the only solution is “a credible, irreversible pathway to a Palestinian state.”

Before the war started last October, U.S. and Saudi officials were in intense discussions to reach an agreement on the terms of such a proposal. For those negotiators, a big question at the time was what Israel would agree to. Since the war began, the Americans and the Saudis have publicly insisted that Israel must agree to the existence of a Palestinian state.

But Israeli leaders and ordinary citizens have become even more resistant to that idea since the Oct. 7 attacks, in which the Israeli authorities say that Hamas and allied gunmen killed about 1,200 people and took about 240 people as hostages. Israel’s retaliatory military offensive has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians, most of them civilians, including thousands of children, say officials from the Gaza health ministry.

Vivian Nereim and Zolan Kanno-Youngs contributed reporting.

— Edward Wong traveling with Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken

Deadly Israeli strikes hit residential buildings in Rafah, Palestinian news media say.

Deadly Israeli airstrikes flattened concrete buildings overnight in the crowded southern Gaza city of Rafah, according to news agencies, which published video on Monday of rows of body bags containing what Palestinian officials said were victims of the strikes.

The Reuters news agency said the strikes in Rafah, which Israel seems poised to invade , killed 20 people. The Palestinian news media said the death toll was at least 24. The Gaza Ministry of Health said 34 people were killed in the Gaza Strip during the previous 24 hours, but it did not specify how many of them were killed by the strikes in Rafah.

Asked for comment on the strikes, the Israeli military issued a statement on Monday saying that its “fighter jets struck terror targets where terrorists were operating within a civilian area in southern Gaza.”

More than one million Gazans have been crowding into shelters and tents in Rafah to seek safety from almost seven months of Israel’s military offensive. Israeli officials have said they will soon send ground troops into Rafah, the last Gazan city Israel has not invaded, in order to eliminate Hamas battalions there, an operation that the Biden administration has warned against because of the risk to civilians.

Palestine TV — a channel backed by the Palestinian Authority, which administers parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank — said the strikes had hit residential buildings in Rafah. One survivor, carrying a baby she said had been pulled from the rubble, spoke to a Reuters video journalist.

“The entire world is seeing what’s happening to us,” the woman, Umm Fayez Abu Taha, said. She said the child appeared to be uninjured, but that her parents had been killed.

“Look at us with some compassion, with some humanity,” Ms. Abu Taha continued. “This is all we ask for, we’re not asking for much just end the war, nothing more.”

— Liam Stack reporting from Jerusalem

Hamas fires a barrage of rockets into Israel from Lebanon.

Hamas’s military wing said on Monday that it had launched a salvo of rockets from Lebanon into northern Israel, an apparent attempt by the group to signal that it is still capable of striking within Israel’s borders even as it studies the latest proposal for a cease-fire in Gaza.

The Qassam Brigades, Hamas’s military wing, said in a statement that it had targeted an Israeli military position in Kiryat Shmona, the largest city in Israel’s far north, with a “concentrated rocket barrage” from southern Lebanon. The Israeli military said in a statement that most of the roughly 20 launches that crossed the border had been intercepted, and that it had responded by striking the source of fire. There were no injuries or damage, the military said.

Though Hamas is based in Gaza, many of its leaders are exiled in Lebanon , where the group has a sizable presence and operates largely out of Palestinian refugee camps. Since the Hamas-led terror attack on Oct. 7 prompted Israel to go to war in Gaza, Hamas has occasionally launched rocket attacks into northern Israel from within Lebanon’s borders, though its ally Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group, has launched far more. Both groups are backed by Iran. Israel has also targeted Hamas figures in Lebanon in deadly strikes.

Walid al Kilani, Hamas’s spokesman in Lebanon, said the attack was “the minimum duty” given Israel’s continued attacks in Gaza. “We know that Hezbollah is doing its duty and more, but the battlefield requires everyone to participate,” Mr. Kilani said.

The launches on Monday, although muted in their impact, highlighted Hamas’s continuing ability to threaten Israel with rocket fire despite more than 200 days of a devastating Israeli air and ground offensive that has decimated the group’s military capabilities in Gaza.

Mohanad Hage Ali, a Beirut-based fellow with the Carnegie Middle East Center, said the attack was likely an attempt by Hamas to signal that it was “still part of the fight.” While it was largely symbolic, it could also be a means to apply pressure amid the Gaza cease-fire negotiations, he said.

Data compiled by the online website Rocket Alert — which tracks warnings of rocket launches using Israeli military figures — shows that there were just 37 alerts in April in response to detected rocket fire from Gaza, compared to around 7,300 in October at the onset of the war. More than six months into the conflict, the data shows a significant drop-off in the number of warnings of rockets from Gaza.

Alerts indicating rocket fire from Lebanon, however, have remained largely steady, the data shows. Most of those are launched by Hezbollah, but Hamas continues to launch attacks from Lebanon with Hezbollah’s blessing.

Amin Hoteit, a military analyst and former brigadier general in the Lebanese army, said the latest attack was a sign of the “integrated front of operations” among Hamas, Hezbollah and other Iran-backed groups in the region .

Hwaida Saad and Jonathan Rosen contributed reporting.

— Euan Ward reporting from Beirut, Lebanon

Israeli officials believe the International Criminal Court is preparing arrest warrants over the war.

Israeli officials increasingly believe that the International Criminal Court is preparing to issue arrest warrants for senior government officials on charges related to the conflict with Hamas, according to five Israeli and foreign officials.

The Israeli and foreign officials also believe the court is weighing arrest warrants for leaders from Hamas.

If the court proceeds, the Israeli officials could potentially be accused of preventing the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and pursuing an excessively harsh response to the Hamas-led Oct. 7 attacks on Israel, according to two of the five officials, all of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to publicly discuss the matter.

The Israeli officials, who are worried about the potential fallout from such a case, said they believe that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is among those who might be named in a warrant. It is not clear who might be charged from Hamas or what crimes would be cited.

The Israeli officials did not disclose the nature of the information that led them to be concerned about potential I.C.C. action, and the court did not comment on the matter.

Arrest warrants from the court would probably be seen in much of the world as a humbling moral rebuke, particularly to Israel, which for months has faced international backlash over its conduct in Gaza, including from President Biden , who called it “over the top.”

It could also affect Israel’s policies as the country presses its military campaign against Hamas. One of the Israeli officials said that the possibility of the court issuing arrest warrants had informed Israeli decision-making in recent weeks.

The Israeli and foreign officials said they didn’t know what stage the process was in. Any warrants would require approval from a panel of judges and would not necessarily result in a trial or even the targets’ immediate arrest.

Karim Khan, the court’s chief prosecutor, has previously confirmed that his team is investigating incidents during the war, but his office declined to comment for this article, saying that it does not “respond to speculation in media reports.”

Mr. Netanyahu’s office also would not comment, but on Friday the prime minister said on social media that any intervention by the I.C.C. “would set a dangerous precedent that threatens the soldiers and officials of all democracies fighting savage terrorism and wanton aggression.”

Mr. Netanyahu did not explain what prompted his statement, though he may have been responding to speculation about the arrest warrants in the Israeli press.

He also said: “Under my leadership, Israel will never accept any attempt by the ICC to undermine its inherent right of self-defense. The threat to seize the soldiers and officials of the Middle East’s only democracy and the world’s only Jewish state is outrageous. We will not bow to it.”

Based in The Hague, the I.C.C. is the world’s only permanent international court with the power to prosecute individuals accused of war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity. The court has no police force of its own. Instead, it relies on its 124 members , which include most European countries but not Israel or the United States, to arrest those named in warrants. It cannot try defendants in absentia .

But warrants from the court can pose obstacles to travel for officials named in them.

The Hamas-led raid last October led to the killing of roughly 1,200 people in Israel and the abductions of some 250 others, according to Israeli officials. The subsequent war in Gaza, including heavy Israeli bombardment, has killed more than 34,000 people, according to Gazan officials, caused widespread damage to housing and infrastructure, and brought the territory to the brink of famine.

The Israeli assault in Gaza has led the International Court of Justice, a separate court in The Hague, to hear accusations of genocide against the Israeli state and has spurred a wave of protests on college campuses in the United States.

If the I.C.C. does issue arrest warrants, they would come with deep stigmatization, placing those named in them in the same category as foreign leaders like Omar al-Bashir, the deposed president of Sudan, and Vladimir V. Putin, the Russian president, who was the subject of a warrant last year tied to his war against Ukraine.

The I.C.C.’s focus on individuals rather than states differentiates it from the International Court of Justice, which settles disputes between states.

The I.C.C. judges have ruled that the court has jurisdiction over Gaza and the West Bank because the Palestinians have joined the court as the State of Palestine.

Mr. Khan has said that his team will be investigating incidents that have occurred since Oct. 7 and that he will be “impartially looking at the evidence and vindicating the rights of victims whether they are in Israel or Palestine.”

Mr. Khan’s office has also been investigating allegations of war crimes committed during the 2014 war between Israel and Hamas; one of the officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity believes the new arrest warrants would be an extension of that investigation.

Hamas and the Israeli military did not respond to requests for comment. The office of Yoav Gallant, the Israeli defense minister, declined to comment.

In general, Israeli officials say that they fight according to the laws of war and that they take significant steps to protect civilians, accusing Hamas of hiding inside civilian areas and forcing Israel to pursue them there. Hamas has denied committing atrocities on Oct. 7, saying — despite video evidence to the contrary — that its fighters tried to avoid harming civilians.

Marlise Simons , Gabby Sobelman and Myra Noveck contributed reporting.

— Ronen Bergman and Patrick Kingsley The reporters spoke to Israeli and foreign officials.

World Central Kitchen plans to resume working in Gaza.

World Central Kitchen said on Sunday that it would resume operations in Gaza with a local team of Palestinian aid workers, nearly a month after the Israeli military killed seven of the organization’s workers in targeted drone strikes on their convoy.

Israeli military officials have said the attack was a “grave mistake” and cited a series of failures , including a breakdown in communication and violations of the military’s operating procedures.

The Washington-based aid group said that it was still calling for an independent, international investigation into the April 1 attack and that it had received “no concrete assurances” that the Israeli military’s operational procedures had changed. But the “humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire,” the aid group’s chief operating officer, Erin Gore, said in a statement .

“We are restarting our operation with the same energy, dignity, and focus on feeding as many people as possible,” she said.

The aid group said it had distributed more than 43 million meals in Gaza so far and that it had trucks carrying the equivalent of nearly eight million meals waiting to enter the enclave through the Rafah crossing in the south. World Central Kitchen said it was also planning to send trucks to Gaza through Jordan and that it would open a kitchen in Al-Mawasi, a small seaside village that the Israeli military has designated as a “humanitarian zone” safe for civilians, though attacks there have continued.

Six of the seven workers killed on April 1 were from Western nations — three from Britain, one from Australia, one from Poland and one with dual citizenship of the United States and Canada. The seventh was Palestinian. They were killed in back-to-back Israeli drone strikes on their vehicles as they traveled toward Rafah after unloading food aid that had arrived by sea.

The attack prompted World Central Kitchen to immediately suspend its operations in Gaza and elicited outrage from some of Israel’s closest allies.

The World Central Kitchen convoy’s movements had been coordinated in advance with the Israeli military, but some officers had not reviewed the coordination documentation detailing which cars were part of the convoy, the military said.

Some 200 aid workers, most of them Palestinians, were killed in Gaza between Oct. 7 and the attack on the World Central Kitchen convoy, according to the United Nations. A visual investigation by The New York Times showed that, well before the World Central Kitchen attack, six aid groups in Gaza had come under Israeli fire despite sharing their locations with the Israeli military.

The episode forced World Central Kitchen to decide between ending its efforts in Gaza or continuing, “knowing that aid, aid workers and civilians are being intimidated and killed,” Ms. Gore said in the statement.

“Ultimately, we decided that we must keep feeding, continuing our mission of showing up to provide food to people during the toughest of times,” she said.

At a memorial in Washington for the World Central Kitchen workers on Thursday, the group’s founder, the celebrity chef José Andrés, said that there were “many unanswered questions about what happened and why,” and that the aid group was still demanding an independent investigation into the Israeli military’s actions.

The seven aid workers had “risked everything to feed people they did not know and will never meet,” Mr. Andrés said. “They were the best of humanity.”

— Anushka Patil

Arab ministers suggest ways to ‘force peace’ amid Israel’s refusal to recognize a Palestinian state.

At a conference in Saudi Arabia’s capital on Monday, senior diplomats from around the world appeared to agree on one thing: The pathway to a durable peace between Israel and the Palestinians is the creation of a Palestinian state.

But with Israel’s refusal to recognize a Palestinian state, three Arab foreign ministers posited how best to proceed, with Ayman Safadi of Jordan presenting the bluntest proposal among them. The international community, he said, should find a way to “force peace” against the will of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel.

“If we come up with the best plan ever, and all of us in the international community agree that this is the plan to go forward, and then Netanyahu and his government say no, what happens then?” Mr. Safadi said during a World Economic Forum panel discussion in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, with the foreign ministers of Egypt and Saudi Arabia. “Will he face consequences?”

He added, “The party that is responsible for denying Palestinians, Israelis and the whole region peace must be held accountable.”

Israel’s foreign ministry declined to comment, and the prime minister’s office did not respond to a request for comment.

Both before and during this war in Gaza, which began after the Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7, Mr. Netanyahu has rebuffed calls for the creation of a Palestinian state.

Analysts say that the attack, in which about 1,200 people were killed and about 240 people taken captive, according to the Israeli authorities, has made it even more unlikely that the Israeli government would agree to such a path. Israeli officials have said that they are trying to eradicate Hamas.

“There is a contrary move, an attempt to force, ram down our throats, a Palestinian state, which will be another terror haven,” Mr. Netanyahu said this month.

Polling shows that a majority of Israelis oppose creating a Palestinian state.

In the Biden administration’s plan for resolving the underlying conflict — and end a war in which Israel’s military has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians, according to officials from the Gazan Health Ministry — it envisions Saudi Arabia agreeing to normalize diplomatic relations with Israel.

In exchange, Saudi Arabia would receive advanced weapons and security guarantees, including a mutual defense treaty from the United States and U.S. commitment for cooperation on a civilian nuclear program in the kingdom .

For its part, Israel would have to commit to the founding of a Palestinian nation, with specific deadlines, U.S. and Saudi officials say.

“In the absence of a real political horizon for the Palestinians, it’s going to be much harder, if not impossible, to really have a coherent plan for Gaza itself,” Antony J. Blinken, the U.S. secretary of state, said on Monday during the conference in Riyadh.

On Sunday at the same event, the Saudi foreign minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, said that the only solution was “a credible, irreversible pathway to a Palestinian state.”

He added, “We need to move from talk to action, to concrete steps, and it can’t be left up to the warring parties.”

Prince Faisal implied that diplomats could maneuver around an Israeli refusal, referring to “mechanisms within the toolbox of the international community that can overcome the resistance of any party.”

“If we make that decision, the pathway will unfold before us, even if there are those that will try to stop it,” he said. “There are levers clear, there are levers hidden, that can push us in that direction.”

Mr. Safadi, the Jordanian foreign minister, said that the challenge Arab states had faced while trying to resolve the conflict was that “we don’t have a partner in Israel now.”

“Do we allow Netanyahu to doom the future of the region to more conflict, war and destruction — or do we do what it takes to force peace?” he said.

Speaking on the same panel, Sameh Shoukry, Egypt’s foreign minister, said that if the international community made a “categorical” commitment to creating a Palestinian state, there were “points of leverage that can fulfill that requirement.”

“We have the mechanisms, but is there the political will to utilize it?” he asked.

— Vivian Nereim reporting from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

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Think Travel Vaccine Guide

As a health care provider, be sure to prepare your globe-trotting patients for travel by providing a quick pretravel risk assessment, consultation, and care. THINK TRAVEL:

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• Make sure they are up- to- date on all routine vaccines before their trip.
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For destination-specific vaccine recommendations, search CDC’s Destination pages.

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*Travelers may also need routine (non-travel) vaccines or boosters before travel including influenza; measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR); tetanus (Td or Tdap); varicella; pneumococcus; and polio. Check CDC’s Destination Pages for country-specific vaccine recommendations.

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Blinken to travel to Jordan and Israel

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Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk; editing by Diane Craft

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Israel agrees not to invade Rafah until consulting with US, Biden admin official says

Israel has said it will not invade the border city of Rafah in southern Gaza until officials have spoken with U.S. leaders about their concerns, White House National Security spokesperson John Kirby said on Sunday.  

“They've assured us that they won't go into Rafah until we've had a chance to really share our perspectives and our concerns with them,” Kirby said during an interview on ABC's “This Week” on Sunday.   

Israel in recent days appeared poised to launch an invasion of the area, where more than one million Palestinians civilians are sheltering and which Israel says is the last Hamas stronghold in Gaza. The international community has long warned Israeli leaders of the massive humanitarian toll of targeting the area.  

President Joe Biden argued in March that an attack of Rafah would be a “mistake” but more recently said that the U.S. and Israel have a “shared objective to see Hamas defeated in Rafah.” 

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is slated to visit Israel this week, and Kirby said negotiating a 6-week ceasefire in the war will be at the top of his agenda. The U.S. is pushing for an arrangement that would allow for the flow of additional humanitarian aid into Gaza as well as the release of Israeli and Palestinian hostages held by Hamas, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. 

Blinken is required to report to Congress next week on whether Israel’s claims that it is using U.S. weapons in accordance with international humanitarian law are credible. 

But multiple senior state department officials have advised Blinken that they don’t believe Israel’s assertions that it is abiding by international law are "credible or reliable," according to reporting by Reuters . 

In a memo, the officials cited eight examples of Israeli military actions that the officials said raise "serious questions" about potential violations of international humanitarian law. Some officials disagreed with their colleagues, according to the outlet.

But the examples included repeatedly striking protected sites and civilian infrastructure; "unconscionably high levels of civilian harm to military advantage"; taking little action to investigate violations or to hold to account those responsible for significant civilian harm and "killing humanitarian workers and journalists at an unprecedented rate," according to Reuters.  

Humanitarian workers have been killed by Israeli airstrikes while delivering food and medicine to people in dire need. 

In recent days, the U.S. military has begun constructing a floating pier off the coast of Gaza that will receive shipments of food and other humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians.  

Kirby said on Sunday that the pier will take two or three weeks to construct and “will help increase the volume of aid that's getting into Gaza.”  

However, he added that “nothing can replace the ground routes, and the trucks that are getting in.” 

“What we're hoping is that after six weeks of a temporary ceasefire, we can maybe get something more enduring in place,” Kirby said. “We want to see an end to the conflict as soon as possible.” 

Contributing: Dan Morrison, Joey Garrison, Tom Vanden Brook USA TODAY; Reuters  

Blinken to travel to Saudi Arabia amid renewed push for a hostage deal

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will travel to Saudi Arabia this week for meetings with regional partners, including Palestinian, Egyptian and Qatari leaders, to discuss efforts for securing the release of Israeli hostages and a cease-fire in Gaza, the State Department said in a statement . After participating in meetings of the World Economic Forum and Gulf Cooperation Council in Riyadh, he will continue on to Jordan and Israel later in the week.

The foreign ministers of Britain, Germany and France are also expected at the WEF meeting, alongside the Saudi foreign minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan al-Saud, WEF President Borge Brende said at a news conference . “There is some new momentum now in the talks around the hostages and also for a possible way out of the impasse that we are faced in Gaza,” he said.

Blinken traveled to the country in March to discuss a U.S. plan to normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia, but leaders in Riyadh have said any such deal would require a pathway to a Palestinian state — a scenario rejected by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

On this visit, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said, “pushing for this temporary cease-fire” would be “right at the top of the list for Secretary Blinken.” Kirby told ABC’s “This Week” on Sunday that Blinken will “also be talking to the Israelis about their intentions and their thinking on Rafah military operations and where they are in the planning stages for that.” U.S. officials have repeatedly voiced opposition to a major military operation in Rafah, in southern Gaza, which Israel says is home to Hamas ’s last intact battalions but is also a refuge for more than a million displaced civilians.

Egyptian officials, who visited Israel on Friday for talks on a proposed cease-fire deal, are optimistic about the prospects of a truce being reached, according to a former Egyptian official with knowledge of the talks who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a sensitive subject. The former official said Israeli cabinet members accepted “for the first time” the idea of a long-lasting halt to the fighting and expressed willingness to hold off on attacking Rafah if a deal can be reached. The proposal is now with Hamas, he said.

On Sunday, President Biden reaffirmed the United States’ “ironclad commitment to Israel’s security” in a call with Netanyahu. In a statement, Biden demanded that Hamas release its remaining hostages to “secure a ceasefire and relief for the people of Gaza.” The two leaders also discussed “increases in the delivery of humanitarian assistance into Gaza including through preparations to open new northern crossings starting this week.”

In Israel, concern is increasing about the possibility of arrest warrants being issued by the International Criminal Court against Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes in Gaza, Israeli media reported.

Netanyahu appeared to address the reports Friday, writing on social media that “Israel will never accept any attempt by the ICC to undermine its inherent right of self-defense.” Israel and the United States do not accept the jurisdiction of the ICC, but member states would be obliged to carry out arrests of anyone in their jurisdiction who faced a warrant. On Sunday, Foreign Minister Israel Katz instructed all Israeli embassies worldwide “to prepare immediately for a wave of severe antisemitism,” should the ICC issue warrants for senior Israeli officials.

Here’s what else to know

Blinken’s visit comes amid a renewed push for a deal with Hamas , which released videos of three hostages last week, including two Israeli Americans. The latest video, released Saturday, shows U.S.-born Keith Siegel, 64, and Omri Miran, 47, who were taken hostage on Oct. 7. The footage has added to pressure on Israel to negotiate a deal for their release.

Aid group World Central Kitchen said Sunday it would resume its operations in Gaza, following the deaths of seven staff members this month by an Israeli military strike. The D.C.-based nonprofit led by celebrity chef José Andrés said in a statement that a Palestinian team would begin delivering food Monday, including in the north of the enclave, where the hunger crisis is most acute. The group said it had 276 trucks with the equivalent of almost 8 million meals ready to enter through the Rafah crossing and will also send trucks into Gaza from Jordan.

Pro-Palestinian protests unfolded outside the White House correspondents’ dinner on Saturday night , with demonstrators posing as slain Gazan journalists outside the Washington Hilton. They laid out press vests to honor media workers who have been killed in the enclave and unfurled a Palestinian flag out of a window at the venue.

France’s foreign minister arrived in Lebanon on Sunday, in a bid to “pursue the objective of peace and stability in the region,” Stéphane Séjourné tweeted . Séjourné praised the United Nations’ peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon as he inspected troops. Reuters has reported that France is trying to ease tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, which have escalated their tit-for-tat border attacks in recent weeks.

At least 34,454 people have been killed and 77,575 injured in Gaza since the war began, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but says the majority of the dead are women and children. Israel estimates that about 1,200 people were killed in Hamas’s Oct. 7 attack, including more than 300 soldiers, and says 261 soldiers have been killed since the launch of its military operation in Gaza.

Claire Parker, Lior Soroka, Hannah Allam and Steve Hendrix contributed to this report.

Israel-Gaza war

The Israel-Gaza war has gone on for six months, and tensions have spilled into the surrounding region .

The war: On Oct. 7, Hamas militants launched an unprecedented cross-border attack on Israel that included the taking of civilian hostages at a music festival . (See photos and videos of how the deadly assault unfolded ). Israel declared war on Hamas in response, launching a ground invasion that fueled the biggest displacement in the region since Israel’s creation in 1948 .

Gaza crisis: In the Gaza Strip, Israel has waged one of this century’s most destructive wars , killing tens of thousands and plunging at least half of the population into “ famine-like conditions. ” For months, Israel has resisted pressure from Western allies to allow more humanitarian aid into the enclave .

U.S. involvement: Despite tensions between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and some U.S. politicians , including President Biden, the United States supports Israel with weapons , funds aid packages , and has vetoed or abstained from the United Nations’ cease-fire resolutions.

History: The roots of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and mistrust are deep and complex, predating the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948 . Read more on the history of the Gaza Strip .

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