HK issues red travel alert for crisis-hit Israel
The SAR government late on Sunday issued a red outbound travel alert for Israel, indicating that people should not make non-essential journeys to the country, and Hongkongers who are already there should take extra precautions. It follows Saturday's unprecedented attack by Hamas militants into Israel and strikes by the Israeli military in response, which have left hundreds of people dead on both sides. In a statement, the SAR government said anyone travelling to Israel should adjust their plans and call off any journeys that are not essential, including leisure travel. A spokesman said: "Anyone already in the country should monitor the situation, exercise caution, attend to personal safety and avoid protests and large gatherings of people." Hong Kong people are also advised to avoid all travel to Gaza and nearby areas as well as areas along the border with Syria and Lebanon due to the volatile security situation. The Security Bureau says it's continuing to closely monitor the situation.  Meanwhile the Immigration Department says five Hongkongers who've been in touch are returning from Israel, while it's liaising with a further dozen residents who are in the country, including offering flight information. It says a tour group of 30 Hong Kong people is still in Israel, some of whom are planning to fly back. The department says it's liaising with the group and will help make appropriate arrangements. The department says it is in contact with the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong, as well as the Chinese Embassy in Israel and the nation's office in Palestine. It's also in touch with the Travel Industry Authority and is continuing to monitor the latest developments.