Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said Saturday that the international community must bring about a two-state solution to prevent the conflict between Israel and Hamas from getting worse.

“Although our starting points are far apart, our interests overlap perfectly: that what is happening in Gaza does not become a much wider conflict, a religious war, a clash of civilizations,” said Meloni.

“I have the impression that this was the real aim of the Hamas attack, not to defend the rights of the Palestinian people, but an attack that would create an unbridgeable gap between the Palestinians and the Israelis, meaning that the target is all of us, and we cannot fall into this trap, which would be very stupid.”

It is important to keep in mind that Italy is more than 4,166 kilometers (2588.632 miles) from Israel. This enormous distance insulates Italy from the direct consequences of the conflict.

According to the U.S. Department of State citizens should not travel to: 

• Gaza due to terrorism, civil unrest, and armed conflict

The United States government is unable to provide ongoing or urgent assistance to American citizens in Gaza. Rocket or mortar attacks and corresponding counterattacks by the Israeli military may occur on a regular basis. During periods of instability or armed conflict, border crossings between Gaza, Egypt, and Israel may be closed.

Reconsider Travel To:

• Israel due to terrorism and civil unrest
• West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest

In the event that you choose to visit Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel, you should:

• Check the Embassy‘s website for the most up-to-date travel advisories in these areas.
• Avoid participating in protests and crowded events.
• Maintain awareness of your surroundings and promptly inform local authorities about any suspicious occurrences or unattended items.
• Get acquainted with the nearest bomb shelter or a safe haven.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and improve your ability to receive emergency assistance.

The Government of Canada recommends that its citizens AVOID NON-ESSENTIAL TRAVEL  to Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip due to the ongoing armed conflict in the region and the dangerous security situation.

West Bank – Avoid all travel

The following places are not covered by this advice. So you should not go there, even for essential purposes.

• Ramallah
• Jericho
• Bethlehem
• Highway 1
• Route 90
• Route 443 between Jerusalem and Modi’in

In addition, the Canadian government advises its nationals against visiting

• Border with Syria
• Border with Egypt
• Border with Lebanon

Unless absolutely required, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) strongly advises against traveling to Israel or the occupied Palestinian territories. Additionally, it advises against visiting the following places:  

• Gaza
• Regions within a 5-kilometer radius of the Lebanon border, officially designated as a closed military zone by the Israeli military, with no entry allowed.
• The Sheba’a Farms and Ghajjar
• Zones within 500 meters of the Syria border, often referred to as the ‘Alpha Line’.

Essential Travel Tips for Visitors to Italy

Italy is ranked at level 2: “Exercise Increased Caution”

• Petty crimes are prevalent. Exercise caution regarding pickpocketing and bag theft in tourist areas and on public transportation, especially at major train stations. Thieves often operate in groups while on trains. Be diligent in safeguarding your possessions.
• Incidents of bombings targeting political locations occur. Steer clear of protests and crowded gatherings. Stay informed through local news sources.
• Stay vigilant to the threat of terrorism. European cities, including transportation hubs and popular tourist destinations, have been targeted by terrorists. Take official warnings seriously.
• Italy is prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity. Significant earthquakes can trigger landslides and avalanches. Forest fires are common from June to September. Keep an eye on the media and follow guidance provided by local authorities.