Israel warns citizens against travel to Tanzania ahead of new December protests

WorldView · Tania Wanjiku · December 6, 2025
Israel warns citizens against travel to Tanzania ahead of new December protests
President Samia Suluhu Hassan PHOTO/FILE
In Summary

According to the embassy, the post-election period has seen violent street confrontations, road closures, curfews, and a near-total disruption of internet services, creating serious challenges for daily life and travel. Transportation networks, including roads and airports, have been heavily affected, and temporary closures of airports cannot be ruled out.

The Israeli embassy in Kenya has issued a cautionary travel notice for its citizens planning to visit Tanzania, highlighting the potential risks from ongoing political unrest. The advisory comes as the East African nation faces renewed demonstrations linked to the disputed October 29, 2025 elections, with tensions expected to escalate around December 9. Officials warn that disturbances could begin days in advance, particularly in central and urban areas.

According to the embassy, the post-election period has seen violent street confrontations, road closures, curfews, and a near-total disruption of internet services, creating serious challenges for daily life and travel.

Transportation networks, including roads and airports, have been heavily affected, and temporary closures of airports cannot be ruled out.
“Violent clashes in the streets may endanger bystanders,” the embassy notes, while also pointing out that communication interruptions, especially online, may intensify as the unrest continues.

The advisory highlights that security forces have strengthened their presence in key towns and cities to manage escalating political tension. Further protests are anticipated, and Israeli citizens are urged to adopt heightened safety measures.

Those currently in Tanzania are advised to avoid areas prone to conflict, stay clear of large crowds, follow instructions from local authorities, and track updates through reliable news channels.

The notice also recommends that travellers stock up on essential supplies, including food, water, medicines, and cash, in case access to shops and transportation becomes limited.

Visitors are reminded to respect Tanzanian laws, particularly rules that prohibit sharing images or videos that could incite panic, which is considered a criminal offense.

For those considering non-essential travel to Tanzania, the Ministry strongly advises postponing trips until the political climate stabilises and normal life resumes.

The Israeli Embassy accredited to Tanzania operates from Nairobi and maintains an emergency line for citizens in need of assistance at +254-110150031, while the Ministry’s Situation Room in Jerusalem can be contacted at +972-53-031-55. The embassy stated it will continue monitoring developments and provide updates as necessary.

Tanzania has been in a state of heightened tension since the October elections, with weeks of disturbances marked by violent street clashes, widespread civil unrest, and internet blackouts that disrupted communication nationwide.

Road networks faced blockages, and the transport system was severely affected, raising concerns over possible temporary airport shutdowns if instability worsens. Security agencies continue to be deployed across major towns and cities as the country prepares for the anticipated December protests.

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