Japanese cautioned to avoid non-essential travel to Israel

 The Japanese Foreign Ministry has issued a cautionary warning to its citizens planning to travel or stay in Israel, advising against non-essential travel, particularly to the Northern region. This advisory comes in light of ongoing attacks between Israel and the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah in the northern Israeli border area.

Key Points of the Warning:

1. Travel Advisory: Citizens are urged to refrain from non-essential travel, especially to the Northern region of Israel.
2. Safety Risks: Those staying in Israel should be aware of potential risks, including flight disruptions and the need for possible evacuation to safe areas.
3. Recent Incidents: An attack on Majdal Shams in the Golan Heights on July 27 resulted in civilian casualties. The situation may escalate following a security cabinet meeting authorizing potential responses.
4. Flight Status: As of July 29, flights to and from Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport are operating normally but may change based on developments.
5. Precautionary Measures: Travelers are advised to inform others of their itinerary, submit a residence notification to local diplomatic missions, and confirm emergency contact information.
6. Warnings for Other Regions: Japan has issued higher-level warnings for Lebanon (level 3) and Syria (level 4), urging against all travel to these countries and immediate evacuation for those in Syria.

General Advisory:

The Ministry highlights the volatile situation in the Middle East, urging Japanese citizens to exercise extra caution and ensure their safety. The situation could quickly deteriorate, as indicated by recent events such as the assassination of Hamas Political Bureau Chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on July 31.

While the advisory is not mandatory, it is strictly followed by official Japanese organizations, travel, and insurance agencies, and businesses.