Israel’s Foreign Ministry has issued updated emergency guidelines for those planning to travel to Uman for Rosh Hashanah, warning travelers that the ongoing war in Ukraine has created an unpredictable security environment and will result in nighttime curfews and other restrictions during the holiday period.
The ministry urged travelers to strictly follow Ukrainian laws and instructions from local authorities, including presenting identification and other documents whenever requested. Israelis were warned against arguments, confrontations or provocative behavior with authorities that could result in arrest. The ministry stressed that Israeli consular assistance does not extend to interfering with legitimate enforcement of Ukrainian law.
Regarding the continuing security threat, travelers were instructed to take air-raid sirens seriously and immediately enter the nearest protected area whenever an alert sounds. They were also warned to stay away from locations where missiles, drones or intercepted projectiles have fallen.
The Foreign Ministry emphasized that photographing or publishing images of military installations, military vehicles, soldiers or the sites of missile and drone impacts is strictly prohibited, including posting such material on social media. Such photographs could expose information about the activities or locations of Ukrainian security forces.
Israeli-Ukrainian dual citizens were given an additional warning. Ukrainian authorities may regard them solely as Ukrainian citizens while they are in the country and could therefore subject them to restrictions applicable to Ukrainian nationals. In such circumstances, the Israeli government’s ability to provide consular assistance may be limited.
Ahead of the annual Rosh Hashanah pilgrimage, the Foreign Ministry recommended that travelers download the Israeli Traveler application and make certain that their passports remain valid for the required period.
Those who require medication were advised to bring medical prescriptions written in English. Travelers may bring no more than five packages of medication intended exclusively for personal use, according to the guidelines. Carrying narcotic or psychotropic substances is strictly prohibited, as is bringing medications that are banned in countries through which travelers will pass on their way to Ukraine.
The ministry also cautioned travelers to prepare for heavy traffic and significant congestion on roads and at border crossings as large numbers of visitors make their way to Uman. Travelers were advised against paying tourism taxes through unfamiliar or unauthorized parties and were told to retain all necessary receipts and documentation.
In an emergency, Israelis in Ukraine can contact the emergency line of the Israeli Embassy in Kyiv at +380-96-770-0103. The Foreign Ministry’s Situation Room in Israel can also be reached at +972-2-530-3155.
{Matzav.com}
