US warns Americans in Israel after spike in organized crime violence
The US Embassy in Jerusalem has issued a security alert warning citizens of increased violence from organized crime groups in Tel Aviv, Jaffa, and Herzliya. The warning follows a series of attacks involving explosives targeting private and commercial properties.
Why it matters
The alert provides critical safety information for US citizens in Israel amid a localized spike in criminal activity that poses a risk to public safety.
The US Embassy in Jerusalem on Wednesday issued a security alert warning US citizens of a reported increase in violence linked to rival Israeli organized crime groups, particularly in the Tel Aviv, Jaffa, and Herzliya areas.
According to the embassy, the attacks appear to be targeting businesses and homes associated with the rival criminal organizations. Reported incidents have involved hand grenades or stun grenades thrown at private residences, vehicles, and commercial properties, often by assailants riding motorcycles.
The embassy said it is closely monitoring the situation and noted that the Israel Police have launched enforcement operations aimed at disrupting the criminal activity and arresting those believed to be responsible.
Despite the increase in violence, the embassy said that both the US Embassy in Jerusalem and the Embassy Branch Office in Tel Aviv remain open for routine and emergency consular services.
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