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Jerusalem cautions against travel, displaying Jewish symbols abroad

Israeli officialdom has identified a significant rise in antisemitism, alongside life-threatening violent attacks on Israelis and Jews.

Ben-Gurion Airport, Dec. 22, 2021. Credit: Flash90.
Ben-Gurion Airport, Dec. 22, 2021. Credit: Flash90.

Israel’s National Security Council and Foreign Ministry on Friday called on the public to exercise extra caution while abroad, including not openly displaying Jewish symbols.

Since Hamas launched the war on Oct. 7, the council and the ministry have identified a significant rise in antisemitism and anti-Israel incitement alongside life-threatening violent attacks on Israelis and Jews around the world.

Such incidents are occurring in countries worldwide, including those for which no terrorism-related travel warnings have been issued.

The National Security Council and the Foreign Ministry said that “Jewish communities, religious and community establishments (synagogues, Chabad centers, kosher restaurants and Israeli businesses), Israeli delegations, and airports with flights to and from Israel are key targets for protests and attacks by antisemitic groups.”

Given the situation, the council recommended reevaluating all foreign travel.

This includes:

A. Postponing travel to countries for which travel warnings have been issued, and especially Arab and Middle Eastern countries, the North Caucasus and countries bordering Iran.

B. Checking whether there have been anti-Israel protests and violence at your destination, including countries for which no travel warnings have been issued.

C. Avoiding openly displaying Israeli and Jewish symbols and features.

D. Having on hand the phone numbers for emergency services (security and medical) and the Israeli embassy, if there is one.

E. Staying away from protests and demonstrations.

F. Remaining alert while abroad and being aware of things happening around you.

G. Refraining from discussing service in the Israeli security forces, including the IDF, with strangers.

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