4) Israel
Israel is full of natural wonders, museums and historical sites. Tel Aviv is a lively seaside town, while Jerusalem is filled with religious significance. The Dead Sea is a major site for medical tourism. However, the political situation in Israel is complex and safety is unpredictable. Israel’s presence in the West Bank and Gaza is strongly contested and is home to a considerable Palestinian population. Both are claimed as territories in the State of Palestine and Hamas, a Palestinian-Islamic organization is in control of Gaza. Israel, the United States and several countries in the EU have deemed Hamas a terrorist organization. A ceasefire was called in 2014, but there are still clashes. Tourists should avoid these areas and all political demonstrations.
