Amid escalating violence in Israel and the surrounding region, American travelers—especially those making religious pilgrimages to Jerusalem—are being urged to reconsider their plans due to significant safety risks.

Many American Christians undertake pilgrimages to Jerusalem as part of their faith, while Jewish Americans frequently travel to Israel to visit family. However, the current war-torn situation in the region poses extreme dangers to all visitors.

Of particular concern is the heightened threat of kidnapping and human trafficking, especially for women and young girls traveling to the Middle East. Given these risks, pilgrimages to the region are now classified as 'highest risk,' with an alarmingly low Healing Quotient Test score.

American citizens are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution and consider postponing any non-essential travel to the area.