Israel Warns Jews Abroad Amid Rising Terror, Antisemitism Ahead High Holidays

Ahead of the Jewish High Holidays, Israel’s National Security Council (NSC) issued an updated terrorism threat assessment urging heightened caution for Israelis traveling abroad due to ongoing and escalating threats from Iran, Hamas, and other extremist groups. The NSC highlighted that Iran remains the principal backer of terrorism targeting Israelis and Jewish individuals worldwide, motivated by retaliation following recent conflicts, including Operation Rising Lion. Dozens of terrorist plots, including those targeting Israeli missions, officials, and Jewish communities abroad, have been thwarted in the past year, while violent antisemitic incidents and incitement on social media have increased. The NSC warned that the approaching second anniversary of the October 7 attacks may mark a period of intensified terrorist activity and that kidnapping and luring attempts against Israelis have been reported. Additional threats stem from global jihadist groups such as ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and Al-Shabaab, with particular danger in parts of Africa, Asia, and the Sinai Peninsula, which remains under Israel’s highest travel warning level. The NSC recommended travelers review up-to-date advisories, maintain vigilance, and avoid high-risk countries to mitigate the ongoing threat landscape.