Israel Issues Tanzania Travel Advisory Ahead of Planned Protests

The Israeli embassy in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda has issued a travel advisory warning its citizens in Tanzania to exercise extreme caution as the country braces for additional demonstrations expected on December 9, 2025.

In a statement issued on Friday, December 5, they outlined several potential risks that may materialize in the coming days, including public disturbances, violent street clashes that could endanger bystanders, and severe disruptions to all forms of transportation.

The advisory comes in the wake of Tanzania's October 29, 2025, elections, which sparked violent protests and widespread unrest across the nation. The post-election period was marked by the shutdown of internet networks and significant disruptions to transportation systems, both within and outside the country.

According to the Israeli foreign ministry, demonstrations anticipated for December 9 may begin several days earlier and are expected to concentrate in central areas of the country.

The advisory warns of possible curfews, roadblocks, communication disruptions, particularly online services, and an increased presence of security forces. There is also a possibility of temporary airport closures.

The ministry has issued specific recommendations for Israeli nationals currently in Tanzania, urging them to avoid areas of friction and public gatherings, and to follow instructions from local security authorities. Notably, the advisory cautions that under Tanzanian law, sharing photos or videos that may cause panic is considered a criminal offense.

Israeli citizens are also advised to stock up on essential supplies including food, water, medicines, and cash, while keeping informed through media updates. For those whose presence in Tanzania is not essential during this period, the ministry recommends postponing travel until the situation stabilizes.

Earlier in the day, multiple diplomatic missions in Tanzania issued a joint statement expressing serious concerns about the situation in the country.

The British High Commission, Canadian High Commission, and embassies from Norway, Switzerland, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, and the European Union Delegation collectively called for accountability and transparency regarding deaths and injuries reported following the recent elections.

The diplomatic missions expressed deep regret over the loss of lives and numerous injuries in the aftermath of the elections. They emphasized the importance of security forces exercising maximum restraint while recalling the government's stated commitment to peace and stability.

The joint statement highlighted credible reports from both domestic and international organizations pointing to serious human rights violations. These reports cite evidence of extrajudicial killings, disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and the concealment of bodies.

"We reiterate our call on the government to uphold their international commitments to protecting fundamental freedoms and the constitutional rights to access information and freedom of expression for all Tanzanians," the missions stated.

The diplomatic community has demanded urgent action from Tanzanian authorities, including the immediate release of all bodies to grieving families, the freeing of political prisoners, and ensuring that detainees have access to legal representation and medical support.