U.S. officials are warning Americans to avoid a popular tourist island as increased threats loom as the anniversary of the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks on Israel approaches.
The U.S. Embassy in Tunisia issued an alert earlier this week regarding Djerba, a major tourist island off Tunisia’s southern coast known for its white sand beaches and resorts.
“Avoid traveling to the island of Djerba around October 7, 2026,” the embassy said in a statement.
Authorities also asked Americans to avoid crowds and “remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings.”
“Avoid areas where there is a heavy police presence,” the advisory states. “Monitor local media. Keep a low profile.”
Wednesday marks the third anniversary of October 7, 2023, the date Hamas terrorists launched a major terrorist attack against Israel.
At the time, more than 1,200 people were killed and thousands more injured, sparking the war between Israel and Hamas.
The attack and subsequent war also fueled a rise in anti-Semitism worldwide, a potential concern in Djerba given the island’s Jewish community.
Djerba, which became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2023, has a long history of Jewish settlement dating back nearly 2,000 years, according to the World Jewish Congress.
Thousands of Jewish visitors from around the world travel to Djerba each year to celebrate the festival of Lag B’Omer between Passover and Shavuot.
“According to certain traditions, there has been a Jewish presence in Tunisia since the time of the Punic Empire and even before,” indicates the site.
Here is the latest news as the world marks the 3rd anniversary of the October 7 attacks on Israel:
“More than 100,000 Jews have emigrated from Tunisia over the last century and only about 1,000 live there today. »
Tunisia, as a country, is currently at “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution,” as the State Department website notes.
“Petty crime is common, particularly in popular tourist spots,” the site warns.
“Violent crimes can occur and are more common after dark. Do not walk or drive at night.”
Some regions of the country, particularly areas along its borders with Libya and Algeria, are classified as “level 4: do not travel” due to terrorism concerns.
“Terrorist groups continue to prepare possible attacks in Tunisia,” the State Department website says.
“Terrorist groups and individuals can attack, and they can do so without warning or premeditated targets. »
Fox News Digital has reached out to the State Department for further details and comment.
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