The Foreign Office has changed its official guidance against “all travel” or “all but essential travel” to the majority of Israel, including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Eilat, the Dead Sea, Haifa, and the Galilee.

The decision is a return to pre-war advice for Israel, with FCDO continuing to advise against travel to certain areas including Gaza, the West Bank, and regions within 500 meters of the Syrian border in the Golan Heights, where the security situation remains more volatile.

FCDO no longer advises against all travel or all but essential travel to some areas of Israel and the West Bank (Image: FCDO)

The UK government has recently issued warnings related to other conflicts in the region and cautioned that there “is an increased risk of political tension which can cause demonstrations and clashes around anniversaries and significant events.”

In addition, the government highlighted the conflict with Lebanese Hizballah, which resulted in a ceasefire agreement on November 27, 2024, with a 60-day implementation period.

While the ceasefire has reduced hostilities, there remains a risk of renewed violence with little warning.

As noted on the government website: “Check Home Front Command for the latest guidance. Restrictions may be put in place at short notice.”

Despite these concerns, the FCDO’s decision to lift travel advisories for most of Israel represents a positive shift.

Historically, the UK’s travel advice to Israel has fluctuated in response to regional security situations.

During periods of unrest, the FCDO has often imposed stringent travel restrictions, which have had a direct impact on tourism and direct flights from the UK to Israel, as well as impacting British tourists’ ability to get travel insurance.