Due to the violence that begun over the weekend—which resulted in Israel declaring war on Hamas—the Israeli government has declared a state of emergency. According to the U.S. State Department, “The situation in Israel remains dynamic; mortar and rocket fire may take place without warning. Individuals should follow the instructions of security and emergency response officials.”
In a statement provided to Travel Agent, the Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT) said it “is deeply saddened by the events that took place at our southern border with Gaza on Saturday, October 7.
“The safety and security of our visitors is our top priority, and we are working to ensure their well-being in every way possible. IMOT, in collaboration with relevant authorities, is working to assist those who wish to depart from Israel. While U.S. carriers have suspended flights to Israel, Ben Gurion International Airport remains open, and many flights are still departing Israel.”
Travelers should continue to check the status of flights and the status of Ben Gurion International Airport at www.iaa.gov.il.
The Ministry of Tourism is also operating a “virtual office” reachable via WhatsApp (+972 55 972 6931) or email (virtual@goisrael.gov.il). Travelers currently in Israel can dial 104 for information or contact Home Front Command on WhatsApp or SMS on +972 52 910 4104.
IMOT will provide updates on travel to and around Israel as new information is available.
Separately, Celestyal became the latest cruise line to change scheduled itineraries, skipping ports of call in Israel. It will remove Israel from all “Three Continents” itineraries through the end of November. Affected sailings include October 21 and 28 and November 4, 11, 18 and 25.
Celestyal is updating all guests and partners about the evolution of the situation and will contact all affected customers and advisors directly in the coming days.
For more information, visit www.gov.il//ministry_of_tourism.
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