Israel, West Bank & Gaza

Over three million foreigners safely visit Israel and the West Bank each year. However, the US Department of State strongly warns against travel to the Gaza Strip, which is under the control of Hamas, a foreign terrorist organization.

Gaza, including its border with Egypt and its seacoast, is dangerous and volatile. Exchanges of fire between the Israel Defense Forces and militant groups in Gaza take place regularly. Although the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt allows for some passenger travel, prior coordination with local authorities is generally required, and crossing points may be closed for days or weeks. 

Also, with the exception of Jericho and Bethlehem, personal travel to the West Bank by US government employees is prohibited. (See Feb. ’13, pg. 19.)