Travel Warnings Updated for Israel and Palestine – February 2026

The security situation in the Middle East remains volatile, prompting updated travel advisories for Israel and Palestine issued on Saturday, February 28, 2026. These warnings reflect an increasingly acute and unpredictable environment, urging caution for potential travelers.

Travel Advisory for Israel

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs currently advises against non-essential travel to Israel. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates condemned statements made by US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee on February 21, 2026, indicating heightened regional tensions.

Travel Advisory for Palestine

Travel to Palestine is subject to more stringent warnings. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against non-essential travel to East Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and Jericho. Specifically, the following areas are included in this advisory:

• The city of Bethlehem
• The city of Jericho
• The King Hussein Bridge (Allenby) border crossing
• The Palestinian Dead Sea coast
• Main roads connecting East Jerusalem to the aforementioned locations

all travel to other parts of Palestine is as well strongly discouraged. Travelers should be aware of potential restrictions on air traffic, which may be implemented with little notice.

Recent Diplomatic Activity

Recent diplomatic efforts include meetings between Minister of Foreign Affairs Varsen Shahin and various representatives, as reported by the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Farseen Shaheen addressed the Organization of Islamic Cooperation on February 27, 2026, in Jeddah, emphasizing concerns about ongoing Israeli policies and their impact on the two-state solution. The Minister highlighted concerns regarding what she described as a systematic policy of colonial expansion and racial discrimination.

Ministry Leadership

Currently, Varsen Aghabekian serves as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Palestine. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs was established on April 30, 2003, as part of the Palestinian National Authority.

Ongoing Concerns

Dr. Shaheen also stressed the importance of addressing attacks against international organizations operating in the occupied Palestinian territory, particularly UNRWA, and the need for accountability for actions that endanger international peace and security.

Travelers are urged to stay informed and monitor the situation closely before and during any potential travel to the region.