Israelis abroad at heightened risk of terror attacks

The NSC noted that the approaching second anniversary of the October 7 attacks could mark a period of heightened activity by terror groups.

By Pesach Benson, TPS

Israel’s National Security Council (NSC) released its latest terrorism threat assessment ahead of the Jewish High Holidays on Sunday, urging Israelis traveling abroad to exercise heightened caution.

While the NSC did not issue new travel warnings, it reiterated ongoing global threats targeting Israeli and Jewish individuals, particularly from Iran and its proxies.

According to the assessment, Iran, Hamas, and other extremist groups continue to plot attacks against Israelis abroad, with dozens of attempts already thwarted over the past year.

These threats range from organized terrorist operations to local and lone attackers.

“Iran continues to be the main backer of terrorism against Israelis and Jews around the world, both directly and through its proxies. Iran is increasingly motivated by retaliation following being strongly hit during Operation Rising Lion,” the NSC said, referring to the June war between Israel and Iran.

“During the past year alone, dozens of Iranian-planned terrorist attacks were thwarted, including those targeting Israeli missions abroad, former Israeli officials, and various Israeli and Jewish targets,” the NSC added.

It noted that the approaching second anniversary of the October 7 attacks could mark a period of heightened activity by terror groups.

The NSC also highlighted a troubling increase in violent antisemitic incidents, as well as verbal attacks and incitement on social media.

Other global jihadist organizations posing threats include ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and Al-Shabaab, particularly in Africa and parts of Asia, while occasionally attempting attacks in Europe and the Middle East.

The NSC reiterated that travel to certain countries—including Iraq, Yemen, Iran, Syria, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, Somalia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Libya, Algeria, Jordan, Egypt, and Turkey—carries severe risk and should be avoided or undertaken with extreme caution.

The Sinai Peninsula remains subject to a Level 4 travel warning due to serious threats.

Travelers are advised to familiarize themselves with local security conditions, avoid displaying Israeli or Jewish symbols, limit public use of Hebrew, steer clear of demonstrations or isolated areas, and exercise vigilance at large events.

The NSC also urged caution regarding social media, emphasizing that content related to Israeli security services or military activity could make travelers targets.

The High Holidays start with Rosh HaShanah, the Jewish New Year, which begins at sundown on Sept. 22. The High Holidays also include Yom Kippur and the week-long festival of Sukkot.

The October 7 attack took place during the festive holiday of Simchat Torah, which concludes the High Holidays.

Approximately 1,200 people were killed, and 252 Israelis and foreigners were taken hostage in Hamas’s attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza border on October 7. Of the 48 remaining hostages, about 20 are believed to be alive.