Palestinian Territory, Occupied🇵🇸
The Palestinian Occupied Territories, also known as West Bank and Gaza Strip, are situated in the East Mediterranean region, which is part of western Asia. Bordered by Jordan and the Dead Sea to the east, Israel to the north, west and south, the territories are under Israeli occupation since the Six-Day War in 1967. The territories have contentious political relationships with its neighbour, primarily due to escalating tensions and conflicts with Israel over territorial control. The territories are known for their rich cultural heritage, with significant biblical and historical sites such as Bethlehem, Hebron, and Jericho. The diverse landscapes range from fertile valleys, deserts to the west and the Dead Sea coastline. However, travel is complex due to unstable political circumstances and ongoing conflicts.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid discussing politics or territorial conflicts, particularly with locals. These issues are sensitive and can stir conflict.
- Avoid involvement in any public gatherings or protests as they can quickly turn violent.
- Avoid travelling to Gaza Strip due to the high risk of armed conflict and other violent incidents.
- Avoid travelling without appropriate travel insurance. Make sure it covers evacuation due to military conflict or natural disasters.
- Avoid any behavior that disrespects local customs and values. Respect religious practices and holy sites.
- Avoid walking alone at night especially in deserted and poorly lit areas.
- Avoid drinking tap water. It is recommended to drink only bottled or thoroughly boiled water.
- Avoid flashing valuable items such as expensive jewelry or cash in public places. This can attract unwanted attention.
- Avoid inappropriate clothing. Dress modestly as the society is conservative, particularly outside main cities.
- Avoid unauthorized border crossings. All entries and exits should be made via official border points.
Overall
4
Crime 🔫
5
The crime rate, mainly petty theft, burglary, and assault, is moderate in the Palestinian Territories. Political unrest often fuels these crimes. The most unsafe cities are Gaza and parts of the West Bank like Hebron which are prone to extreme cases of violence, especially during protests.
Terrorism 💣
3
The territories are politically unstable, and terror incidents are relatively frequent. Among recent incidents was in 2021 when an 11-day war broke in May. Hamas fired rockets towards Israel from Gaza, and Israel retaliated with airstrikes causing civilian casualties on both sides.
War ⚔️
3
Gaza Strip and West Bank have been sites of frequent conflicts with Israel. For instance, the 2021 Israel–Gaza conflict, an 11-day military engagement between Hamas and Israel, caused extensive damage and loss of life.
Natural Disasters 🌊
8
Natural disasters are relatively rare, with the most common threats being floods and droughts due to climatic changes. However, these threats are limited and the territories are generally considered safe from major natural disasters.
Medical Care 🏥
4
Due to political unrest and unstable economic situation, health care systems in the territories are under-resourced and overcrowded. Immediate and advanced medical care is not widely available, particularly in the Gaza Strip which is under severe restrictions.
Tap Water Quality 💧
2
The tap water quality is poor, particularly in the Gaza Strip due to damaged infrastructure. Visitors are advised to boil tap water before use or rely on bottled water.
Disease Burden 🤒
7
The disease burden in the regions is moderate. However, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has put an extra burden on the already stretched healthcare infrastructure.
Corruption 💸
3
Corruption is a significant issue in the territories, particularly in public services and construction sectors. This results from a lack of political stability and a high level of bureaucracy.
Safety for Women ♀️
6
While women are entitled to equal rights, cultural norms can restrict women's rights in practice. However, women can travel safely with necessary precautions, particularly in tourist areas.
Safety for Queer People 👬
2
The territories are not incredibly friendly towards the queer community due to cultural and religious beliefs. Public displays of affection should be avoided to prevent unwanted attention.
Censorship 📺
3
Freedom of speech and press is limited due to political instability. Journalists face threats and harassment, impacting the free flow of information.
Public Transportation 🚌
4
Public transportation is available but less reliable due to regular traffic congestion and occasional closures of security checkpoints. Thus, travel plans can be disrupted. There have not been major incidents or accidents recorded in recent times.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
While travel in the territories is possible, it has to be done with caution due to ongoing political instability and intermittent conflicts. Most advisories suggest reconsidering your need to travel to these regions, particularly Gaza, due to safety concerns. Therefore, visitors are advised to stay vigilant, avoid large gatherings, keep abreast with local news and adhere to instructions by local authorities.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Several countries have representative offices in the Palestinian Territories (mainly in Ramallah), including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and others. While these are not full-scale embassies, they can provide consular assistance to their citizens.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Recommended vaccines include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccinations including influenza, chickenpox, polio, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus (DPT). The Covid-19 vaccination is highly recommended as well.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
There aren't many dangerous animals. However, the area is home to certain venomous snakes such as the Palestine Viper.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Visa requirements vary based on nationality. Many visitors enter the Palestinian Territories via Israel, so Israeli visa and entry requirements apply. It is advised to check with your local embassy or consulate.
💲 Currency
The official currency is the Israeli Shekel (ILS). Currency can be exchanged at banks, hotels, and currency exchange outlets.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are widely accepted in larger towns and cities, but cash is preferred for small purchases.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Due to political instability and strained economic conditions, work and travel in the territories can be complex and requires careful planning and consideration.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
The cost of living and travel is relatively low compared to Western countries. However, due to the political situation, daily costs could fluctuate and air transport could be costly due to limited options.