ISTANBUL

The US Embassy in Israel urged American citizens on Saturday to “reconsider travel” to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza amid escalating Israeli attacks in the region.

“Due to the current evolving security situation, including the resumption of red alerts and large-scale demonstrations, the U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens of the continued need for caution and increased personal security awareness,” the statement said.

It warned of mortar, rocket, and missile fire, as well as unmanned aircraft system intrusions, which “often take place without any warning.”

The embassy advised Americans to avoid demonstrations, monitor local media, and know the location of the nearest shelter.

In recent days, thousands of Israelis have taken to the streets to demand a renewed ceasefire agreement in Gaza and to oppose recent political decisions by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, including the dismissal of Ronen Bar, the head of the internal intelligence service, Shin Bet.

The advisory also comes amid Israel's renewed attacks in the Gaza Strip, where over 700 Palestinians have been killed and more than 1,000 injured since Tuesday, following the collapse of a January ceasefire.

Since October 2023, nearly 50,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed in Israel’s military campaign, with more than 113,000 injured.

The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants last November for Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.

Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its war on the enclave.