Security Overview for Israel

While many people view Israel as a dangerous travel destination due to the country's history of terrorist attacks and wars, in reality the possibility of being affected by a security incident is relatively low.

The number of terrorist attacks has dropped significantly since peaking during the Al-Aqsa Intifada. However, the threat of terrorist attacks in the heart of Israeli cities remains significant. In recent years, only Palestinian Islamic Jihad has staged successful attacks in Israel proper, though that is likely to change due to ongoing problems in the Palestinian Authority. Attacks typically target crowded, public, open spaces during busy periods. The most likely cities for attacks are Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and cities in the Sharon region.

Israeli security forces foil the vast majority of planned terrorist attacks. To prevent attacks, security forces often go on high alert. During these alerts, security forces set up roadblocks and security checkpoints in and near cities where specific terrorist threats are known. Most office complexes and government buildings in Israel have sufficient security to discourage would-be attackers.

The July-August 2006 war between Israel and Hizballah demonstrates the continued threat of an external conflict. The main threat is of war is along the borders with Lebanon and Syria, in northern Israel. Militant attacks along the Egypt-Israel border are also an increasing concern; in August 2011, militants from an unidentified group conducted a number of ambushes near Eilat which killed eight people and wounded dozens more.

Violent crimes such as armed robbery, assault and sexual assault are uncommon. Organized crime is a growing concern, with civilians occasionally killed or injured by attempted assassinations of rival crime group leaders. Israeli police are engaged in a campaign against organized crime groups. Theft of and from vehicles is also growing problem, especially in areas near the West Bank. The most common crimes - pickpocketing and bag-snatching - occur after dark in urban areas. Follow the same common sense precautions in Israeli cities as in any large city. Avoid disreputable districts and unlit areas at night, and be alert for pickpockets and muggers.

Avoid all public transportation: Terrorists frequently target buses and bus stops. A taxi or private car and driver are the most secure means of transportation.

Demonstrations and rallies are typically peaceful. Protests are most common in front of the office of the prime minister in Jerusalem (Kikar Tzion), and in Rabin Square in Tel Aviv. Violent protests may occur in Jerusalem's Old City and near disputed religious sites. Arab Israelis protest annually on March 30, May 14-15 and Oct. 1.

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How we determine a country's overall security rating

Each country's current overall risk rating is determined by considering categorical assessments in kidnapping, crime, security services, civil unrest, terrorism and geopolitical stability.

Minimal Threat

Most countries in this category have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with a low rate of unemployment. These countries have overall low rates of crime. Violent crime is almost non-existent. Petty crimes do occur, but are usually limited to petty theft and pick pocketing. Police and military services are trained and trustworthy, but may lack investigative and crime fighting equipment and skills. Strikes and demonstrations are rare and if they occur are usually well planned and managed and rarely spurn violent incidents. There are no known insurgent or terrorist groups.

Low Threat

Most countries in this category will have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with some unemployment. These countries have low crime rates. Violent crimes are rare and usually involve associated persons. Petty crimes such as theft and pick pocketing are a concern and travelers may be directly targeted. Risks can usually be mitigated with simple security measures. Police and military services are well trained and trustworthy but may lack adequate investigative equipment. Incidents of civil unrest such as strikes and demonstrations may disrupt daily life, but are usually non-violent and well coordinated. These countries may experience rare instances of domestic terrorist activity but are not threatened by international terrorism. Anti-government groups may be present but have little or no impact.

Moderate Threat

Most countries in this category will have a somewhat stable political infrastructure and economic system but unemployment and rising inflation cause some instability. These countries have moderate levels of crime. Violent crimes such as sexual assault and murder occur, but few are random incidents. Petty crimes, especially theft or destruction of unattended property, are common. Incidents of armed assault also occur. More threatening crimes are usually limited to urban areas or certain parts of the country. Police and military services may suffer from corruption and lack of training, but are generally adequate for investigations. Strikes and demonstrations can disrupt daily life and may easily spur violence. This country may have a variety of anti-government and domestic terrorist groups that are organized and outspoken against the government and may conduct incidents of violence. Small cells of international terrorist organizations exist but incidents of terrorism are not common.

High Threat

Most countries in the category have unstable political infrastructure and economic system with high rates of unemployment and inflation. Violent and petty crimes are common in most areas and random acts of violence do occur. Some areas may have a general state of lawlessness. Traveling alone, especially at night, should be avoided. There will be a large infiltration of arms in the population. Police and military services lack training and equipment. Both institutions are prone to corruption. Strikes and demonstrations are common and usually violent. Domestic terrorist and insurgent groups are active and well organized. They conduct bombings and other violent acts against government, local and international interests. International terrorist groups exist and may conduct activities within the country and abroad. The country may be involved in cross border warfare.

Extreme Threat

Most countries in this category lack a political infrastructure with any democratic premise and have a high rate of corruption. The economy is unstable with a high rate of unemployment. There is a very high rate of violent and petty crime. A general state of lawlessness exists in most urban and remote areas. Overland travel through the country must be avoided. Many domestic terrorist or rebel groups exist and are frequently active; areas of the country may be controlled by rebel factions. International terrorist operations may be well organized and active. Anti- government actions and large demonstrations are common and violent. Cross border and internal warfare occur.