In Global Guardian's "Your Questions Answered" series, our experts address pressing questions on current events, providing insight and analysis on the issues that impact your personal safety, business operations, and travel security.
Read below for insights from our analysts and subject matter experts, and get in touch with our team for further support and guidance.
This week’s question
November 13, 2024
Following a wave of coordinated antisemitic violence against Israeli soccer fans in Amsterdam, how is Global Guardian advising Jewish and Israeli travelers and clients at this time?
Global Guardian’s response
Provided by: Zev Faintuch, Head of Research and Intelligence at Global Guardian
In light of recent organized violence against Israeli soccer fans in Amsterdam, Global Guardian advises Jewish and Israeli travelers to exercise caution and take several key precautions when traveling. There is an elevated risk of targeted harassment or violence, especially in areas with high anti-Israel sentiment. Travelers should consider avoiding events or locations where large groups of Israelis or Jewish individuals may congregate, such as pro-Israel rallies, Jewish sites, or high-profile events.
For personal safety, travelers should keep a low profile, refrain from openly discussing personal backgrounds, and speak in English. In particular, we recommend avoiding traditional taxi cab or ride-sharing services, as recent reports indicate that some cab drivers may have used WhatsApp groups to share the whereabouts and other personal information of Jewish or Israeli travelers. This practice poses a serious security risk, as drivers can potentially disclose sensitive travel details to others who may be intent on targeting these individuals. Although standard ride-share platforms are generally considered safe, it’s often difficult to fully vet drivers beyond star ratings, which do not guarantee traveler safety. For additional security and peace of mind, using secure, pre-arranged transportation services is recommended, as these services often employ vetted drivers and maintain strict privacy standards. By arranging secure transportation in advance, travelers can better control who they are traveling with, significantly reducing the risks associated with unknown drivers.
While Global Guardian does not advise against all travel to Europe for Jewish or Israeli travelers, heightened awareness and extra precautions are essential to ensure safety in potentially volatile environments.
Key Takeaways
- Travel in Europe and other regions is not discouraged for Jewish or Israeli travelers, but travelers may want to avoid rallies or high-profile events and maintain a low-profile.
- The use of private, pre-arranged transportation services is advised.
Standing by to Support
The Global Guardian team is standing by to support your duty of care and security requirements with a comprehensive suite of solutions. To learn more about our services, complete the form below or call us at + 1 (703) 566-9463.
