U.S. embassy in Israel: Americans should remain vigilant for terror attacks

The U.S. embassy in Israel warned Americans to be vigilant for terrorist attacks on the anniversary of the embassy’s move from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

Tuesday is the one-year anniversary of the day President Donald Trump’s daughter and adviser Ivanka Trump and U.S. Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin opened the embassy. Israel celebrated its 71st Independence Day May 9.

“Terrorist groups may choose the anniversary, which coincides with the Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv (May 14-18), or Nakba Day (May 15), to conduct violent protests or an attack,” the embassy said in an email. “Security incidents can occur well beyond Gaza and its periphery and at any time.”

Nakba Day means “day of the catastrophe,” a Palestinian holiday that marks Israel’s creation in 1948 and the displacement of their citizens in the aftermath. A large group is amassing at the Israeli border.

Earlier this month, fighting in Gaza and surrounding areas intensified with more than 700 rockets fired into Israel. Four Israelis were killed and more than 200 were injured. In Gaza, 25 Palestinians were killed and more than 150 were injured.

Americans are encouraged to remain vigilant and avoid demonstrations, follow Israeli instructions and be aware of the nearest shelter.

Source: UPI