Israel’s National Security Council (NSC) issued a travel warning ahead of Pesach, warning that Hamas is likely to escalate efforts to target Jewish and Israeli individuals and institutions overseas amid mounting pressure in Gaza and renewed fighting with Israel.

“The group’s deteriorating situation in Gaza and the resumption of fighting are expected to further increase its attempts to conduct attacks,” the NSC stated in a newly released threat assessment.

The advisory comes amid a string of foiled plots across Europe. In December 2023, Hamas operatives were arrested in Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands on suspicion of planning attacks on Jewish targets. In April 2024, Bulgarian authorities uncovered a hidden cache of weapons tied to four Hamas-linked suspects previously detained in Germany and the Netherlands.

The NSC identified Iran as the principal sponsor of global terrorism targeting Jews and Israelis. In recent months, Iranian operatives have reportedly used deceptive business proposals and impersonation tactics to lure Israeli citizens abroad in attempts to harm or kidnap them.

Swedish intelligence agency Sapo has previously linked Iran to explosions and gunfire near Israeli diplomatic sites in Sweden and Denmark. In May 2024, Sapo also reported that Iran was recruiting members of Swedish criminal gangs to carry out violent acts against Israeli and Jewish interests — a claim Iran has denied.

The NSC’s warning further highlights the growing threat posed by global jihadist groups such as ISIS. The council noted an uptick in lone-wolf-style attacks across Europe, and cited attempted arson and car bombings in Australia as well as a series of Molotov cocktail and shooting attacks targeting Jewish institutions in Canada.

“The climate of hate against Israelis and Jews due to the ongoing war continues to fuel terrorist efforts, both from organized cells and individual attackers,” the NSC said. It added that the possible expansion of combat zones, including a broader IDF operation in Gaza, could further incite attacks on Israelis abroad.

The Sinai Peninsula, a popular travel destination for Israelis, remains classified by the NSC as a “high-risk area,” and citizens are urged not to travel there.

In closing, the council urged all Israelis planning to travel overseas to remain vigilant, review NSC travel advisories before flying, and avoid areas with elevated security threats.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)