Israel Tightens Entry Rules for East Africans Over Ebola Fears, Kenyans Among Those Affected
Israel Tightens Entry Rules for East Africans Over Ebola Fears, Kenyans Among Those Affected
Israel has imposed new travel restrictions on nationals from Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as authorities move to prevent the possible spread of Ebola amid a growing outbreak in Central Africa.
According to a directive issued by Israel’s Border Control Department, airlines have been instructed not to allow boarding for travelers from the affected countries, as well as anyone who has visited any of the listed nations within the previous 21 days before their planned travel to Israel.
The restrictions, however, do not apply to Israeli citizens or permanent residents, who will still be allowed to enter the country subject to health protocols and screening measures. Israeli authorities say the directive will remain under continuous review depending on how the Ebola situation evolves in the region.
The move comes as health officials worldwide remain on high alert following an outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola in the DRC and Uganda. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the situation as a major public health concern, with hundreds of confirmed cases reported and cross-border transmission already documented between the two countries.
Although Kenya has not reported any confirmed Ebola cases, the country has intensified surveillance at border points and airports due to its close regional connections and high volume of cross-border movement. Kenyan authorities have also issued advisories aimed at strengthening preparedness and early detection measures.
Israel joins a growing list of countries that have introduced travel-related precautions in response to the outbreak. Similar measures have been announced elsewhere as governments seek to reduce the risk of importing cases while health agencies work to contain the virus at its source.
The development is expected to affect business travelers, students, tourists, and pilgrims from the affected countries, with uncertainty remaining over how long the restrictions will stay in place as global health officials continue monitoring the outbreak.
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