Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories: Security Situation
On 7 October 2023, rockets were fired from Gaza across southern and central Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. There is currently a large-scale ongoing conflict happening in areas of southern Israel close to the border with Gaza and within Gaza. Military operations are expected to continue. The security situation remains highly volatile and fluid. We have seen significant disruptions to flight schedules and operations in the last few days, and expect this to continue to be an issue for some time. We therefore continue to recommend strongly to those who want to leave Israel, to do so as soon as possible.
Departures – Israel
Where New Zealanders have the option of travelling commercially to depart Israel they should pursue this. You may need to consider taking different routes to your original travel plans.
New Zealanders who are wanting to leave Israel but are unable to can contact the New Zealand 24/7 consular emergency line on + 64 99 20 20 20.
Flight schedules and operations could change or be interrupted at any time. We recommend strongly to those who want to leave Israel and can, do so as soon as possible.
Departures – Occupied Palestinian Territories
Options to depart the Occupied Palestinian Territories are extremely limited.
If you are a New Zealander in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and wish to depart, please contact the New Zealand 24/7 consular emergency line on + 64 99 20 20 20.
Current Advice
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade now advises that New Zealanders avoid non-essential travel in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Higher levels (do not travel) apply to some regions. Read our full updated travel advisory here: Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories | SafeTravel.
The Israel Defence Force has declared an operational zone within 80km of the border with Gaza. New Zealanders in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories should adhere to any restrictions and instructions issued by the local authorities, such as curfews and travel restrictions. Areas of military activity should be avoided at all times. If you are in an affected area, shelter in place until it is safe to leave.
New Zealanders throughout Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories are advised to remain security conscious. The security situation remains volatile and violence could escalate at short notice. We advise New Zealanders remaining in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories to monitor the media and stay informed of developments. Please also contact your loved ones back home to let them know that you are safe.
International borders (air and land) in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories could close at short notice. Your travel may be impacted. You should contact your airline to check your flight status, and the availability of flights, before travelling. We recommend that you also contact your travel insurance provider to see what insurance cover may apply in these circumstances.
We provide general advice on contingency planning for New Zealanders overseas to consider here.
Consular Assistance
We encourage all New Zealanders visiting or living in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories to register their details on SafeTravel.
If you require consular assistance please contact the New Zealand 24/7 Consular Emergency Line on +64 99 20 20 20.
The New Zealand Embassy in Ankara, Turkey covers Israel and can be contacted at +90 312 446 3333 or at newzealandembassyankara@gmail.com.
The New Zealand Embassy in Cairo, Egypt covers the Occupied Palestinian Territories and can be contacted at +202 2461 9186 or at enquiries@nzembassy.org.eg.
Associated Advisories:
Reviewed:16 Oct 2023, 17:15
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