Advice for British citizens in Israel

Information for British Citizens in Israel
Last updated on: February 2, 2026 7:23 pm

UK Government Advice

Leaving Israel

The Foreign Minister has announced that the Government will provide charter flights for those who wish to leave when Israeli airspace reopens. One flight has already took 63 British nationals to Cyprus on Monday. More flights are expected to be announced soon. Register your presence and signup for email alerts from the Foreign Office to receive updates and further guidance. 

Israel's Ministry of Tourism is collecting information from visitors in order to coordinate departures in due course, and have published an online coordination form.

The FCDO's Official Travel Advice page offers information regarding possible alternative routes for those who are trying to leave Israel now (information current as of 19 June 2025). This information is subject to change, please check the FCDO's Travel Advice page for the most current information:

International land border crossings to Jordan and Egypt are open, but could close without notice and timings are subject to change. Before you travel check the travel advice for any neighbouring country that you are planning to travel to or through. Commercial transport services to border crossings (eg taxis and bus transport) are operating, subject to safety alerts. Commercial flights continue to operate from airports in the region to various destinations, including the UK.

Jordan-Israel border crossings (timings subject to change):

  • Allenby/King Hussein Bridge: 8am to 2:30pm
  • The Northern (Jordan River/Sheikh Hussein) crossing: 8:30am to 2:30pm
  • The Southern (Yitzhak Rabin/Wadi Araba) crossing: 8am to 8pm

Egypt-Israel border crossing (timings subject to change):

  • Taba: Open 24 hours

FCDO officials have been deployed at border crossings (identifiable with hi-vis jackets and Union flags) in the region to assist travellers. Please be advised that the Board of Deputies has received reports of complications at some border crossings.

 

Stay Safe in Israel

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) currently advises against all travel to Israel. British citizens already in Israel should stay alert and follow instructions from local authorities.

Get Real-Time Alerts & Official Safety Information

Download the official Home Front Command App to receive real-time missile and shelter alerts. Ensure that "Critical Alerts" are enabled in your phone settings.

Help and Resources for Stranded British Citizens

Several organisations in Israel and the UK are offering support to British nationals who need psychological, financial, or accommodation assistance.

Mental Health Support

Emergency Aid & Accommodation

  • Latet offers food and emergency assistance to people in need throughout Israel.
  • Chabad of Israel can assist with temporary housing, meals, and local guidance for stranded travellers.

Emergency Contacts

If you are in the UK and concerned about a friend or family member who is in Israel call the FCDO on +44 (0)20 7008 5000

Live Red Alert Map

Shelter Guidance

If you are currently in Israel, it is essential to know where to shelter in the event of a missile or drone alert. Use the resources below for live alerts, shelter locations, and emergency support.

Follow the official guidance for how to choose a shelter.

Shelter Types in Israel

Shelters in Israel come in various forms depending on the building type and location. Most are marked with Hebrew abbreviations. Here's a guide to help you understand them:

למרחב מוגן
למרחב מוגן
Lamerchav Mugan
Protected Space

General signage directing people to a nearby protected space.

ממ״ד
מרחב מוגן דירתי
Merchav Mugan Dirati
Reinforced Room

Reinforced room built into homes and flats.

מקלט
מקלט ציבורי
Miklat Tziburi
Public Shelter

Public shelter maintained by local government or municipality.

ממ״ק
מרחב מוגן קומתי
Merchav Mugan Komati
Floor Shelter

Shared protected space for a floor in multi-storey buildings.

ממ״מ
מרחב מוגן מוסדי
Merchav Mugan Mosadi
Institutional Shelter

Shelter built into public institutions like schools and hospitals.

מיגונית
מיגונית
Migunit
Mini Shelter

Portable concrete shelter placed in open areas.

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