Updated on 14 May 2019
The Situation:
Palestinians and civil society groups are expected to hold commemoration events and protests throughout Israel, West Bank, and the Gaza Strip on Nakba Day on Wednesday, 15 May, to commemorate the exodus of Palestinians in 1948.
Nakba Day is officially commemorated on 15 May, but specific Palestinian villages typically observe the Nakba at specific times and dates throughout the week.
Protest marches, demonstrations, speeches, and other events are expected in Israel, West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. Heightened security measures are likely, including road closures, checkpoints, increased screening at ports of entry and airports, and associated disruptions.
In Gaza, civil society groups have called for a day-long strike and large demonstrations to commemorate Nakba and protest the Israeli blockade and fishing restrictions. Protests at the Israeli-Gazan border are also likely, particularly on Wednesday. Clashes between protesters and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are possible.
Possible Effects:
Blocked roads due to demonstration or police blockades
Increased police and military presence
Significant traffic delays and detours
Longer wait times at checkpoints
Mitigating Factors to Apply:
Adhere to police and military direction and avoid areas where authority is present
Avoid all protests and large crowds, which have the possibility of turning violent
Allow extra time for travel
Allow extra time at airport due to increased security checks
Allow extra time for passing through checkpoints
Take bypasses and highways
Monitor local and social media for updates
Enroll in the Safe Traveler program (STEP) to receive warnings from the U.S. Embassy
DISCLAIMER and Hold Harmless
Disclaimer: LSDS gathers information from multiple sources and offers insight and perspective to travelers. Sources cannot be validated for accuracy in every instance. Travelers assume all risk associated with their travel and are responsible for the decisions associated with travel and for their own safety. Users of this reference document agree, to hold harmless LSDS (LLC) its employees and clients associated with any risk or injury incurred during travel.