U.S. Embassy Warns Americans in Israel About Organized Crime Violence

The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem issued a security alert after reports of increased violence linked to rival Israeli organized-crime groups. It said attacks involving hand grenades or stun grenades have targeted homes, vehicles and businesses, mainly in Tel Aviv, Jaffa and Herzliya. The embassy urged U.S. citizens to stay alert in commercial areas, especially during evening and overnight hours, avoid police cordons and report suspicious activity. It said Israeli police are conducting enforcement operations against the groups, while routine and emergency consular services in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv remain open.