As the war between Hamas and Israel escalates in the Middle East, tensions are spilling over into Europe, where demonstrations and terrorist attacks have caused chaos for locals and tourists.
Last week, monuments and government buildings across Europe were lit up in blue and white. It was a show of solidarity with Israel following the October 7 Hamas attack that killed at least 1,400 Israeli civilians. Within days, tens of thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators marched through European cities to protest Israel’s subsequent bombing of Gaza. An explosion at a hospital in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday left people dead, leaving Palestinians and Israelis to blame for their dealings, and threatening to further escalate instability.
Local authorities have stepped up security after clashes broke out in London, Paris, Madrid and Rome over the weekend. In France, security threats have forced the evacuation of institutions such as the Louvre and several airports.
Security experts say travel to Europe remains largely safe, but it’s important to watch out for demonstrations and remain vigilant against perceived threats.
Here’s what you need to know about the disorder.
Where are people protesting?
Since October 13, which the former Hamas leader declared a “day of anger,” tens of thousands of people have rallied across Europe to call for an end to Israel’s military action in Gaza, and in some parts of the country, including France and Germany. countries are urging Israel to ban military action. Palestinian demonstration. One of the largest protests was held in London, where 15 people were arrested in clashes with police. Another pro-Palestinian demonstration is planned at Marble Arch in London at noon on Saturday.
In Paris, a pro-Palestinian protest is planned at Place de la République from 6pm on Thursday in defiance of the ban, which instructs local authorities to assess security risks in individual incidents. The ban was upheld by a French court on Wednesday. Further rallies in support of the Palestinians are likely to continue across Europe until late October, according to security risk and crisis management consultancy Crisis24.
Following a hospital explosion in Gaza late Tuesday, protesters in Istanbul stormed the Israeli consulate, threw fireworks at the building and burned an Israeli flag. In the Turkish city of Malatya in the Middle East, a group of demonstrators tried to enter a US military base. And on Wednesday, demonstrators gathered outside the U.S. consulate in Istanbul, demanding its closure.
The US Embassy in Ankara said large demonstrations related to events in Israel and Gaza are expected across Turkey in the coming weeks. “Any gathering, even one intended to be peaceful, has the potential to escalate and become violent,” the embassy said in a safety alert issued Wednesday. . “Protests may result in increased police presence, road closures and traffic disruption.”
On Tuesday, Israel’s National Security Council issued a warning against travel to Turkey and Morocco, saying Israeli travelers could be targeted. He called on all Israeli citizens living in Türkiye to leave the country as soon as possible.
“We remind our customers that public demonstrations and protests can quickly spiral out of control,” said Randy Haight, director of global response and protection efforts at FocusPoint International, a U.S.-based travel risk management company. “We always recommend that you avoid it because it can lead to.”
Is there a terrorist threat?
This week, two terrorist attacks occurred in France and Belgium, causing both countries to raise their terrorist threat alert to the highest level.
A knife-wielding man attacked a school in northern France, killing one teacher and injuring several others. French authorities described it as an “Islamist terrorist attack.” Days later, a man shot dead two Swedes during a Euro 2024 qualifying soccer match between Belgium and Sweden in Brussels, in what authorities called an “act of terrorism.” The match was suspended and fans waited in the stadium. The assailant was later shot dead by police.
“Although authorities have not identified a link between the Israeli-Hamas conflict and the attacks in Europe, the highly emotional and divisive nature of the conflict could prompt additional attacks in the coming weeks. James Wood, Director of Security at International SOS, said: Health and safety risk management company.
“The report also shows that hate crimes have increased globally since the conflict began,” it added.
Tourist sites and transportation hubs in France have received multiple bomb threats this week, with tourists evacuated from the Louvre and the Palace of Versailles. On Wednesday, eight French airports were evacuated following threats. The site has since reopened.
Are there any travel advisories?
Before traveling to Europe, visitors should check the State Department’s website for the latest guidance for the country they are visiting. The department has now issued a Level 2 advisory for most European countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Germany, and Spain, telling Americans to “exercise increased vigilance” due to terrorist threats and civil unrest. I’m calling out.
As of October 18, the alert level for terrorist threats in France remains at the highest level. Belgium’s threat level has since been lowered to level 3.
What steps can I take to reduce my risks while traveling?
International SOS’s Mr Wood said it was difficult to predict the course of the war and related incidents that might occur in Europe. However, individuals can take some practical steps to reduce their exposure to potential events.
Security is expected to increase in the coming weeks, especially around tourist hotspots, key government areas and public transport hubs.
Be on the lookout for suspicious activity or items and report anything unusual to authorities.
Be prepared for security alerts and hoaxes that can cause chaos and sudden evacuations from public places.
Please follow all instructions issued by authorities and do not act on unconfirmed information.
Please check with local authorities for details of any planned demonstrations. Anticipate disruption and plan your trip accordingly.
Expect increased police presence and leave the area if you see any signs of anxiety.
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