Passover travel warnings issued for Israelis abroad
Counter Terrorism Bureau warns against possible abductions, cautions Israelis to refrain from gathering in large groups
Just a little over three weeks remain until Passover Eve, and on Monday the Counter Terrorism Bureau issued travel warnings and published a statement giving a general overview of the situation abroad.
The Bureau emphasized that there was nothing new in these warnings, but in light of the new circumstances brought on by the 40-day anniversary of Hizbullah commander Imad Mugniyah’s assassination in Damascus, Israelis abroad must be more alert.
First and most importantly, the Bureau recommends avoiding large gatherings of Israelis. In addition the Bureau accentuated its warning regarding possible attempts to abduct Israelis abroad, especially businessmen who have dealings with Arab or Muslim businessmen.
The recommendations for Israelis abroad are as follows:
• Be aware, and sensitive to any out of the ordinary occurrences.
• Refrain from visiting or staying in Arab or Muslim countries for which the Bureau has issued warnings.
• Reject any tempting or unexpected proposals and gifts, or offers for free stays at suspicious establishments.
• Reject any unexpected invitations for meetings, especially in remote areas, and make sure to arrive at planned meetings with a trustworthy escort.
The Philippines, Thailand, Turkey, and Uzbekistan, were not listed under the label of dangerous, though a certain threat of terrorism exists. In reference to these countries the Bureau recommended certain safety measures that should be taken if traveling or staying there.
The statement cautions strongly against visiting Iran and Afghanistan. In reference to Columbia the Bureau counsels all Israelis connected in any way to the government to keep a low profile, to travel by air when possible or to keep to main roads when traveling by land, and to avoid high-risk areas.
Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, and Kenya are mentioned among the countries posing a high threat. Israelis are warned to avoid visiting them or, if already located there, to leave immediately. Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Tajikistan are listed as potentially threatening, and Israelis are asked to postpone any unnecessary trips to these countries.
The Arab countries are listed by order of the levels of threat they pose. Iraq, Egypt, Sudan, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, and Yemen are listed as very high-risk, while Algeria, Djibouti, and Saudi Arabia are listed as high-risk, and Kuwait, UAE, Tunis, Qatar, Morocco, Chad, and Bahrain are listed as a basic risk. Libya and Oman are listed as potential risks.
