Yes - when traveling with a program like Birthright Israel, it is considered safe to do so.
Birthright Israel only operates programs when national security authorities approve travel and when we are fully confident in our ability to protect participants. Every trip runs under daily security assessments coordinated with Israeli security forces.
Over the past two decades, more than 900,000 participants have traveled with Birthright Israel with zero security-related injuries. This is not a coincidence. It is the result of strict protocols, constant monitoring, and the ability to adapt in real time.
For young adults considering travel to Israel, this level of oversight typically does not exist in independent travel.
Unwavering Security Standards
From the moment you touch down at Ben Gurion Airport, your safety is our primary operating principle. We don’t just follow local safety guidelines; we operate under some of the most rigorous standards in international educational travel.
Expert Accompaniment:
Every group is accompanied 24/7 by a licensed security escort who is also trained as a medical first responder.
Real-Time Monitoring (“Situation Room”)
Birthright Israel operates a centralized operations and security center that monitors the situation across Israel in real time, in constant coordination with the IDF Homefront Command, Israeli police, and local security authorities. Every itinerary is approved daily - not weeks in advance.
A Network of Support:
Our staff and guides are deeply invested in the safety and inclusion of every participant, providing a consistent point of contact throughout the duration of the trip.
Private Transportation Only:
Participants travel exclusively on private, secured buses with experienced drivers. Public transportation and unapproved areas are avoided entirely.
Real-Time Flexibility: The Key to Safety
One of the most important answers to the question “Is Israel safe?” lies in flexibility. If a security situation changes, even temporarily, routes are adjusted immediately. This may include:
- Skipping a site
- Spending more time in a different region
- Changing the schedule on the same day
Birthright Israel does not “push through” an itinerary. Safety considerations always come first.
Approved Locations Participants Visit
Birthright Israel only visits areas approved by Israeli security authorities. These typically include:
● Jerusalem: The Western Wall, the Jewish Quarter, and central historic sites
● Tel Aviv & Central Israel: Cultural, educational, and social experiences
● The Judean Desert: Masada and the Dead Sea
● The North: The Galilee and Tzfat
Border regions or areas of concern are excluded whenever necessary.
Information for Parents and Families
We know that for parents, sending a child abroad is a major decision. We take the responsibility for each participant’s safety and well-being extremely seriously.
To ensure your peace of mind, we have established multiple layers of reliable communication so you can always stay in touch:
● Direct Contact: Every participant is required to have a phone with an international calling and data plan, allowing families to reach them directly at any time.
● 24/7 Staff Access: Our dedicated staff is available via WhatsApp and phone 24/7 to support both participants and their families abroad.
● Trip Organizer Details: Each group provides clear and direct contact information for families.
● Emergency backup: If direct contact isn’t possible, families can reach Birthright Israel’s after-hours emergency service at +1-888-99-ISRAEL (7723)
What the Data Shows
According to Israel’s Ministry of Tourism, millions of international visitors continue to travel to Israel, even during periods of regional tension, with incidents involving tourists remaining extremely rare.
Birthright Israel’s internal safety data, spanning over two decades, shows no security-related harm to participants, due to controlled routing, daily itinerary approvals, and professional security accompaniment.
Why the Experience Matters Now More Than Ever
It’s important to say this honestly: Israel isn’t always perfectly calm.
And still, this experience matters.
For many young Jewish adults, visiting Israel is not just a trip - it’s a formative moment of identity, connection, and belonging. Especially now, being present, learning firsthand, and engaging thoughtfully with Israeli society can be deeply meaningful.
Whether you’re looking to volunteer in Israel, find a professional internship, build a valuable career network, or join a classic 10-day Jewish trip, doing so through a structured, safety-first program makes all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions About Safety
Q: Is it safe to travel to Israel with Birthright right now?
Yes. Birthright Israel only operates when we are 100% confident in our ability to provide a safe and meaningful experience. We strictly follow IDF Homefront Command guidelines and coordinate all movements with national security forces.
Q: What happens if there is a siren or alert while I am there?
Every participant receives a comprehensive safety orientation upon arrival. Your trained staff and security escort follow exact protocols for finding shelter, and itineraries are adjusted in real-time to avoid any areas under active threat.
Q: What if the security situation changes during the trip?
We are experts at real-time flexibility. Itineraries are approved daily, and we will not hesitate to adjust our approach or move the group to a different location if necessary.
Q: Are the flights to Israel safe?
Yes. We work with international airlines that are accredited members of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and operate under strict safety audits.
Bottom Line
Israel is complex, but Birthright Israel is built for complexity.
Safety isn’t a promise; it’s a system - grounded in experience, close coordination with security authorities, and real-time decision-making. It’s a system that has proven itself, year after year.
The journey of a lifetime is waiting.
