For three of the world’s major religions, Israel is a land sanctified by God Himself. The city of Jerusalem, specifically, holds fundamental religious importance to those who practice Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The Holy Land invokes a feeling of pilgrimage for religious travelers, yet that is not the only reason people come here. Israel is also a beautiful nation steeped in history with the added landscape of the Dead Sea, the Mediterranean and Galilean Seas. Still, there is much concern for the safety of travelers.

Violence in Jerusalem, Gaza and the West Bank

Violence is found through the state of Israel, specifically in the areas of Jerusalem, Gaza and the West Bank. The State Department of the United suggests that travelers heading to Israel and the Holy Land should exercise caution. Jerusalem is an area of extreme religious importance for those who practice Judaism, Christianity or Islam. The State Department suggests that Americans be especially careful around holy sites and on holy days such as Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. In addition to this, the U. S. State Department also advises that all travelers to holy sites dress appropriately as dress that is considered “immodest” is often protested against at holy places.

Gaza and the West Bank

The Gaza and West Bank regions are known for areas of unrest and violence. According to the State Department, no U.S. Government employees are permitted to travel to settlements or towns in the West Bank. The State Department also recommends that private American citizens should avoid this area entirely. Because this area is heated with tensions between Israel and Palestine, the threat of terrorism is great in this area. These events often occur in public areas such as malls, markets, buses, trains etc.

Concern for Palestinian Americans

Another concern is for those who are Palestinian Americans. Israeli authorities may mistake Palestinian Americans for residents of the West Bank or Gaza area. This is intensified if the individual has been issued a Palestinian ID. If you are carrying an ID number, there are certain areas where you will not be allowed to enter, such as Gaza or the West Bank.

The issues of terrorism and violence color the experience and the expectations that many have of their trip to Israel. Despite the political and social dangers, Israel and the Holy Land continue to draw visitors wishing to explore the roots of their religion, family ties and even Man’s origins.

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