Australia’s Smartraveller service has released its first travel advice on Palestine since Prime Minister Anthony Albanese formally recognised it as a state, warning Australians not to travel to Gaza or most of the West Bank.
The advice, updated on Monday, now reads: “Do not travel to Gaza and the West Bank (excluding Jerusalem) due to the volatile security situation, ongoing military activity, armed conflict, civil unrest and terrorism. Reconsider your need to travel to Jerusalem.”
DFAT said Israeli military action and security operations by both Israeli and Palestinian forces continue across Gaza and multiple parts of the West Bank. Travellers already in these areas are urged to “take shelter and monitor media” during any military or security operation and to follow guidance from the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority where relevant.
The update highlights the unpredictable security environment across Palestine and the wider region, noting a risk of terror attacks “anywhere at any time, including by lone actors”. It warns that all flights in and out of Gaza and the West Bank remain suspended, land borders can close without notice, and the Rafah crossing to Egypt is subject to long closures and sudden restrictions.
There is no sea access to Gaza due to an Israeli naval blockade. Travellers are told not to attempt to breach the blockade, with past attempts leading to death, injury, arrest or deportation.
Consular support is now “extremely limited”. DFAT has temporarily suspended operations in Ramallah, advising Australians in Palestine to seek help via the Australian Embassy in Jordan, and those in Jerusalem to contact the Australian Embassy in Israel.
Entry to Palestine still requires passage through Israeli-controlled land or air points of entry, with associated security checks, and travellers are urged to read Israel’s travel advice in parallel.
The update underscores that Australians planning to travel to the region should subscribe to Smartraveller alerts for the latest security information.
