Categories: Travel

Is it safe for them during the Israeli-Gaza conflict?

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Israel’s war with Hamas has been escalating, with ground troops surrounding Gaza City and preparing for street-by-street fighting. The death toll in Gaza has surpassed 10,000, prompting calls for a ceasefire from the international community. However, Israel shows no signs of backing down.

The conflict has raised concerns about spillover into other parts of the Middle East, with Hezbollah militants firing rockets into Israel from Lebanon. As a result, the UK Foreign Office is pulling embassy staff and family members out of Lebanon and updating travel guidance for the region.

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Lebanon due to the fast-moving situation and potential for deterioration. Commercial routes could be disrupted, and roads may be closed with no warning. British nationals in Lebanon are urged to leave while commercial options are available.

Cyprus, although not in the Middle East, is close to the conflict zone and has been used as an evacuation point. The Foreign Office has not issued any travel warnings for Cyprus, but advises vigilance due to the proximity to Israel.

Egypt, a popular tourist destination, shares a border with Israel and Gaza. The Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to certain parts of Egypt due to military activity. However, tourist areas like the Red Sea coast, Luxor, Cairo, and Alexandria are considered safe.

Jordan, while generally safe for tourists, shares borders with Israel and the Palestinian West Bank. The Foreign Office advises against travel within 3km of Jordan’s border with Syria and warns of ongoing protests in the country.

Turkey, in close proximity to the conflict, has seen heightened tensions and demonstrations related to events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. The Foreign Office advises against travel near diplomatic missions and warns of potential disruptions to local transport routes. Travel near the Syrian border is also discouraged due to the likelihood of terrorist attacks.

Team@GQN.