US urges citizens to ‘reconsider travel’ to Israel amid war

The State Department increased its travel advisory for Israel on Wednesday, urging Americans to “reconsider travel” to the country as its war with Hamas in Gaza intensifies.

Hamas militants launched a wide-scale attack on Israel on Saturday. Military actions between the nation and the militant group have continued since then, leaving more than 1,200 Israelis and more than 1,000 Palestinians dead, according to the Israeli media and the Palestinian government.

“Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza,” the State Department said in the advisory. “Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.”

The “reconsider travel” advisory also applies to the West Bank, whereas Gaza is under “do not travel” recommendation. The escalating violence in Israel means that U.S. government employees are no longer allowed personal travel in the country, according to the advisory.

In recent days, Israel has begun a campaign of airstrikes in Gaza, leveling entire neighborhoods. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said the war’s objective is to completely eliminate Hamas.

“We will wipe this thing called Hamas, ISIS-Gaza, off the face of the earth,” he said in a statement Wednesday, Reuters reported. “It will cease to exist.”

Hamas, the militant group that has controlled Gaza since 2007, is not affiliated with ISIS.

The U.S. and its Western allies have backed Israel since the conflict began Saturday. President Biden said Israel has a right to defend itself and will have U.S. support during a Tuesday address.

“In this moment we must be crystal clear: We stand with Israel,” Biden said in remarks from the State Dining Room. “And we will make sure Israel has what it needs to take care of its citizens, defend itself and respond to this attack. There’s no justification for terrorism. There’s no excuse.”