Israel has introduced new travel restrictions affecting citizens and recent visitors from five African countries, including Rwanda, following concerns over a reported Ebola outbreak in parts of East Africa.
The measures also apply to travellers from Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), according to Israeli authorities.
In a statement issued on June 10, 2026, Israel’s Population and Immigration Authority instructed airlines not to allow boarding of foreign nationals from the affected countries on flights to Israel.
The restrictions also apply to any traveller of any nationality who has visited one of the five countries within 21 days prior to travel.
“Due to the Ebola outbreak spreading, from the moment you receive this notice, airlines are requested not to allow boarding of foreign passengers who meet the conditions outlined in these regulations,” the statement said.
Under the directive, non-Israeli citizens and non-permanent residents who have recently travelled to any of the listed countries are barred from entry.
The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, clarified that the measures do not apply to Israeli citizens or permanent residents.
“These instructions do not apply to Israeli citizens or permanent residents. We appreciate your cooperation and compliance,” the statement added.
Authorities said the restrictions will remain under review depending on how the Ebola situation evolves in the affected countries.
Rwanda’s Ministry of Health has confirmed that no Ebola cases have been reported in the country to date.
