Americans traveling to and from Israel should prepare for possible flight cancellations and airspace closures with little warning, the US Embassy in Jerusalem said in a Sept. 19 security alert issued over concerns about a potential escalation.
The embassy advised travelers to confirm their flight status directly with their airlines and monitor official information from Ben Gurion Airport and Haifa Airport. Passengers were cautioned against relying on previously scheduled departure and arrival times because aviation operations could change quickly.
Concerns about a possible attack on the eve of Yom Kippur were cited against the backdrop of the warning. The embassy said the security situation remained complex and could change unexpectedly, potentially disrupting air travel.
Beyond aviation, US citizens in Israel were urged to prepare for possible security alerts by identifying their nearest protected space. The embassy recommended keeping water, food, medication, and other essential supplies accessible and ensuring mobile phones remain charged.
During an aerial attack or warning, Americans should stay clear of windows and glass doors and follow instructions from local authorities.
Additional precautions included avoiding demonstrations and large gatherings and staying away from locations with a significant police presence. US citizens were also advised to remain particularly vigilant around sites publicly identified with the United States.
The security notice also addressed potential threats beyond Israel and the Middle East. US diplomatic facilities have previously been targeted, the embassy said, warning that Iran and Iran-aligned actors could direct attacks against American interests in other parts of the world, including US-associated businesses and institutions.
Consular services have not been suspended. The US Embassy in Jerusalem and its branch office in Tel Aviv continue to provide both routine and emergency consular assistance despite the security alert.
