internationalsos.com - Press releases

International SOS and Control Risks activate crisis team in wake of escalating security situation in Israel and Gaza

International SOS, the world's leading medical and security assistance services company and Control Risks, the global business risk consultancy, are providing advice and emergency assistance to clients who have employees, students and other individuals in Israel and Gaza.

The security situation in Southern Israel and Gaza has deteriorated since 14 November with continued rocket fire and air attacks in the region. The conflict escalated over the past several days with the assassination of Ahmed Jabari, chief of the Gaza Military wing of Hamas.

International SOS has established a crisis team in London comprising security, medical, aviation and logistics experts. Additionally, both International SOS and Control Risks have put a team on the ground in Tel Aviv to provide hands on client support.

International SOS and Control Risks' current advice is for essential travel to Tel Aviv and Southern Israel and to avoid the 25-mile (40km) zone around the Gaza border. All travellers must have a good understanding of the authorities mandated emergency procedures and comply with them including locations of the nearest air raid shelters and safe routes to them in the event of sporadic rocket fire.

Both companies are monitoring the situation and encourage clients to call one of International SOS’  27 assistance centres worldwide for further information or evacuation advice. 

Up-to-date information, advice, and analysis are available on the Travel Security Online section that can be accessed from the Members’ login area on http://www.internationalsos.com/.