Государство Израиль
Comment of the Information and Press Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia in connection with appeals of several Russian media regarding to the recommendations for the Russian citizens visiting Israel taking into consideration the escalation of tensions around the Gaza Strip
As you know, during the last days the tension in the Palestinian territories has increased significantly, particularly around the Gaza Strip. Since last week from Gaza Strip rocket attacks on southern Israel have resumed. There was the information on the launching of rockets into Israel from the Sinai territory. Cases of the response to signals of air alarm in the Israeli settlements locating within 40-70 km from the Gaza Strip including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem was indicated. Israeli air defenses were actuated.
In its turn, Israel strikes on Gaza from the air and sea. There are reports on the preparations for a ground operation in Gaza.
In general, today the situation in Israel remains stable. Air service to Tel Aviv and Cairo is not interrupted, and the borders between Gaza and Egypt remain open for people traffic. The delegation exchange with Israel, the Palestinian Authority and Egypt continues to implement in normal regime.
As for Russian citizens traveling to Israel as tourists, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia recommends to be cautious and refrain from the visiting of high-risk areas, especially areas in the immediate vicinity of the Gaza Strip.
November 19, 2012