Israel Ministry of Tourism provides update on Ongoing Operation “Roaring Lion”

The Israel Ministry of Tourism said today (March 1) that, under the directive of Minister of Tourism Haim Katz, it “is operating in emergency mode, providing accommodation to residents evacuated from their homes and assisting tourists currently staying in Israel with departing from the country,” following the launch of Operation “Roaring Lion.”

In a statement, the Ministry said that: “As of this morning (Sunday), approximately 37,400 tourists are in Israel. Since the beginning of the operation, approximately 700 tourists have left the country.”

And it continued: “The Ministry of Tourism is prepared to assist tourists who wish to depart Israel by arranging transportation to the land border crossings and is maintaining continuous contact with the Israel Incoming Tour Operators Association, which is coordinating the groups staying in Israel.”

The statement also noted that: “At the same time, the Ministry of Tourism is responsible for housing residents evacuated from their homes as a result of missile strikes throughout the country. To date, the Ministry has placed more than 280 individuals in hotels. The framework, which was prepared in advance with a broad inventory of rooms for emergency situations, is operating in cooperation with the Israel Hotel Association.”

And the statement continued: “Alongside field operations, Director General Michael Izhakov has instructed that the 24/7 virtual information office be reinforced. Since the beginning of the operation, approximately 500 inquiries have been addressed, many of which require a human response and are being handled directly by Ministry staff.”

The Ministry said that it is maintaining continuous contact with all sectors of the industry, including hoteliers, travel agents, tour guides, and tourism operators, and is receiving up-to-date situational assessments regarding needs on the ground.

Information on Land Border Crossings:

• Menachem Begin Crossing (Taba): Open 24/7.
• Yitzhak Rabin Crossing (Arava): Open 06:30–20:00.
• Allenby Bridge Terminal: Open 09:00–17:00; tourist processing accepted until 14:30.
• Jordan River Crossing (Beit She’an): Open 08:30–17:00 (arrival at the terminal permitted until 15:30).

Important Notes

• Advance payment of border fees: It is important to complete payment of the fee prior to arrival at the crossing. Advance payment significantly reduces waiting times and prevents congestion at the payment counters.
• Direct link for fee payment (BorderPay): https://borderpay.metropolinet.co.il/
• Travellers should arrive at the land border crossings at least two hours before official closing time.
• Emergency information for tourists, including access to the virtual office, is available at: https://www.gov.il/he/pages/emergency-information-for-tourists

The Ministry said that all information is subject to last-minute changes. It is recommended to check updates on the Israel Airports Authority website prior to departing for the terminals.