Warning to Australians in Israel and the Palestinian Territories

The Australian Government urges Australians currently in the Gaza Strip to make arrangements to depart immediately.

The Australian Embassy in Tel Aviv is arranging a one-off assisted departure of Australians from the Gaza Strip.

Australians wishing to depart should urgently contact the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or the Australian Embassy in Tel Aviv on +972 3 693 5000 for information and advice on options.

There are no plans for any further assisted departures. Australians are strongly advised not to travel to the Gaza Strip because of the extremely dangerous and unpredictable security situation and the possibility of further Israeli military operations against militants.

I continue to be deeply concerned by the deteriorating situation in Israel and the Palestinian Territories.

The actions of militants in Gaza, who are firing rockets indiscriminately into Israel, are inexcusable and must be condemned.

The retaliatory acts from both sides that have led to civilian deaths and injuries are deeply regrettable, and I call on all parties to exercise restraint and do everything necessary to avoid a further escalation of violence.

The Australian Government has updated its travel advice for Israel and the Palestinian Territories, with the full advisory available at: www.smartraveller.gov.au.