Israel

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers 

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services. 

• Dial 100 for police.  
• Dial 101 for ambulance.  
• Dial 102 for fire. 
• Dial 118 from local cell phone and via text or + 972-50-227-0018 for Ministry of Labor and Social Services to report domestic violence. 

Terrorism 

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists use knives, firearms, and vehicles to target crowds.  

Terrorists may target: 

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) 
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants 
• Places of worship 
• Schools  
• Parks 
• Shopping malls and markets 
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights) 

Mortar and rocket fire or hostile aircraft intrusion 

In the event of mortar, rocket fire, or hostile aircraft intrusion, a “red alert” siren may be activated. Treat all these alerts as real.  

• U.S. government personnel and their family members may be restricted from traveling to areas affected by rocket activity, sirens, or the opening of bomb shelters.  

Safety tips 

• Know the location of your closest shelter or protected space. The Waze app includes an "Emergency" or "Crisis" quick-selection button on the main search screen in Israel. Tapping this button instantly displays a list and map of public shelters in your immediate vicinity. You can also type the Hebrew word for shelter (מקלט) into the destination search bar to find nearby options with directions and distance.   
• Follow the instructions from local authorities and seek shelter immediately. 
• For additional information on appropriate action to take upon hearing a siren or explosion, review the Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command website (available on devices within Israel) or review the Preparedness Information.   
• Consider downloading the free Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command application on Android or Apple devices to receive real-time security and safety alerts, or look for free commercial applications, such as Red Alert: Israel.

Demonstrations  

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.  

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.   
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 

Crime 

The crime rate is moderate in Israel.  

• Parked vehicle break-ins are common at tourist sites.  
• Vehicle theft also remains a problem.  
• U.S. citizens should not leave their valuables (including passports) unattended in parked vehicles or unsecured in hotels. Stay aware of your surroundings in tourist areas.  
• Be aware of crimes of opportunity, such as pickpockets. 

Scams 

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams. 

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial scams or Internet romance scams may occur in Israel. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.  

Common scams include:  

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel 
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad 
• Romance and online dating  
• Money transfers  
• Grandparent and relative targeting  
• Free trip or luggage  
• Lotteries  
• Inheritance notices  
• Work permits and job offers 

Victims of crime  

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 100. 

Review our information for Victims of Crime.   

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:  

• Replace a stolen or lost passport. 
• Help you find medical care.   
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.  
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.  
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.   
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.  
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.  
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.  
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home. 
• Provide information on possible Government of Israel assistance to victims of crime to: 
  • Israel National Police 
  • Ministry of Justice  
  • Ministry of National Security 

Provide information on Government of Israel assistance to victims of terrorist acts. Contact the National Insurance Institute for more information. 

Sexual assault and domestic violence  

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault and domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy Jerusalem or Branch Office Tel Aviv for assistance.  

Technology use abroad 

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices: 

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.  
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.   
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.  
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest. 
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens. 
• The use of recreational drones requires a license issued by the Israeli Civil Aviation Authority. Please find information on obtaining a license at the Civil Aviation Authority. 

Tourism safety 

The tourism industry is generally regulated: 

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced.  
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.  
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.  
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.  
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.  
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.  

Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties 

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned. Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime. 
• Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking illegal drugs in Israel are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.  
• You may face criminal penalties if you express views, including on social media, which the Government of Israel considers incitement to violence or hate speech. This is even if the content and views expressed would be lawful in the United States.  
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad. 
• Before you start a business or a profession in Israel seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.   

Legal barriers to leaving Israel 

Military, civil, and religious courts in Israel can stop certain people – including non-residents - from leaving the country until they resolve debts or other legal issues.  

• Israel's religious courts have authority over all Israeli citizens and residents in cases of marriage, divorce, child custody, and child support.  
• U.S. citizens – including those without Israeli citizenship – can face long, unwanted stays in Israel or even imprisonment, if someone files a case against them in a religious court. This can happen even if:  
  • The marriage took place in the United States. 
  • The person’s spouse is not in Israel.  

U.S. citizenship does not protect you from these risks. The U.S. embassy cannot cancel a U.S. citizen’s debt or guarantee they will be allowed to leave Israel if they are barred from departing until the debt is resolved.  

Arrest notification  

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.   

Arrests and arrest notification by Israel 

A treaty between the United States and Israel, along with international law, requires Israel to tell the U.S. embassy when a U.S. citizen is arrested, but only if the arrested person identifies themselves as a U.S. citizen and asks for the embassy to be notified.  

• Some minors over the age of 12 have been tried as adults. Minors over the age of 14 can be imprisoned.  
• There are credible reports that Israeli security forces have mistreated U.S. citizens during their arrest and interrogation. 
• Arrestees have also reported pressure to sign documents in Hebrew that they do not understand. 
• U.S. citizens arrested in Israel for criminal or security offenses are entitled to legal representation provided by the Government of Israel.  
• U.S. citizens arrested by Israeli authorities for security offenses may be prevented from communicating with lawyers, family members, or consular officers for long periods of time. Even after the U.S. embassy is notified, it may take days or weeks before officials can visit you.  

Under Israeli law, people detained for security offenses can be held for up to 6 months without being formally charged. Consular access to the arrested individual may be delayed for days to several weeks.  

Dual nationals 

These rules apply even if you enter Israel or PA-administered areas using your U.S passport:   

• If you hold both U.S. and Israeli citizenship, the Israeli government will treat you as an Israeli citizen.  
• If you hold both U.S. and Palestinian Authority (PA) citizenship, the PA will treat you as a PA citizen.  

Detention conditions 

A detention facility may not provide you with essential medications or medical care.  

• Detainees in Israeli security prisons, including Ofer Prison, may not receive sufficient nutrition or timely medical care. 
• Detainees in Israeli security prisons are often not allowed to communicate with anyone other than attorneys and U.S. embassy consular staff.  
• Israeli security prisons have experienced large scale and long periods of scabies outbreaks that have affected U.S. citizens

Counterfeit and pirated goods 

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.  

• They may be illegal according to local laws.   
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.   
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.   

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:  

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection  
• U.S. Department of Justice 

Faith-based travelers 

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work.  

Prepare for your travel using these resources:   

• Faith-Based Travel 
• Volunteering Abroad 
• International Religious Freedom Reports 

Gay and lesbian travelers 

There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Israel. 

Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers. 

Travelers with accessibility needs 

The law in Israel prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. This law is not evenly enforced.  

• The law mandates accessibility to urban public transportation but not to intercity buses. Most train stations maintain access for persons with disabilities; however, many buses still do not have such access.   
• Television stations include subtitles or sign language, and the courts accommodate testimony from persons with intellectual disabilities or mental illness.  
• Tourists will find restaurants, foot paths, and public transportation less accessible than in the United States. 

Review our information on Accessibility Needs. 

Students

Review our information on Studying Abroad.  

Women travelers   

Review our information for: 

• Women Travelers 
• Marriage 
• Victims of Crime 

Human rights 

Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling. 

Health

Health resources 

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Israel, the West Bank and Gaza Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.  
• CDC Medical Tourism information  
• World Health Organization 
• Medicine and Health 
• Travel Insurance 

Emergency phone numbers 

Dial 101 for emergency medical services.   

Ambulance services 

Ambulance services are widely available.  

Medical payments and insurance 

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.  

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills. 
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad. 
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance. 
• Medical care is not free in Israel. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility. 
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Israel. 
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. 
• Credit card payment is not always available.  
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance. 
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims.  

Vaccinations 

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

• CDC Travelers’ Health 
• World Health Organization Travel Advice  

Healthcare facilities  

Health facilities are available throughout Israel.  

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.  
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission.  
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.  
• Patients must cover all costs for transferring to or between hospitals.

Prescription medications  

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  

• Check with the Israel Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Israel.  
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.  
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places. 
•  Please review Israel’s rules on medication.   

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.  

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.  

For more information:  

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection  
• Food and Drug Administration 

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy 

If you are considering traveling to Israel to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.  

• Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in Israel. For additional information, visit the Government of Israel website. 

Water quality and food safety 

Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking. 

Air quality 

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.  

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Israel. 
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality Page.  
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.  

For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page. 

Transportation

Road conditions and safety 

Israeli roads and highways tend to be crowded, especially in urban areas.  

• Aggressive driving is common. Many drivers fail to maintain safe following distances or give a signal before changing or making turns.  
• Making turns at high speed on undivided two-lane roads is common and may result in accidents. 
• Drivers stop suddenly on roads without warning, especially in the right lane.  

Traffic laws   

• Seatbelts are mandatory for drivers and passengers.  
• All drivers are required to always carry fluorescent vests and safety triangles in the car with them. They are required to wear vests whenever they get out of their cars to make repairs or change tires.  
• If a vehicle is stopped for a traffic violation and it does not contain a fluorescent vest, the driver will be fined.  
• Using a cellphone while driving is illegal. Hands-free units are authorized. 
• The acceptable limit for blood alcohol content is lower in Israel than in the United States. 

Taxis and ride-shares 

• Israel has abundant taxi and ride-share services. 
• Book taxis via your hotel. On-call taxi services, such as Gett and Yango, also operate in Israel.  
• Licensed on-call taxi drivers will have a government-issued sticker on the upper corner of the passenger windshield.  

Public and commercial transportation  

• Visit the website of Israel’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.  
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.  

Aviation safety oversight  

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Israel’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight.  FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program. 

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

The most likely weather events and natural disasters in Israel include: 

• Floods, including flash floods from November to March 
• Droughts from May to October 
• Earthquakes 
• Landslides 
• Extreme temperatures: heatwaves from June to August, and cold spells from December to February 

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources 

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad. 

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married. 
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad. 
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service. 
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits. 

Embassies and consulates