Israel has imposed a travel ban on nationals from five African countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, following reports of an outbreak and spread of the Ebola virus.

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In a notice dated June 10, 2026, and circulated to airlines, Israel's Border Control Department prohibited affected travellers from boarding flights bound for Israel.

The restrictions also apply to foreign nationals from any country who have visited any of the listed countries within 21 days before their intended travel date to Israel.

"To all airlines, following the outbreak of the Ebola virus, effective from the receipt of this notice, you are prohibited from boarding foreign passengers who meet the criteria specified below on flights bound for Israel," read part of the notice.

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" You are required to prevent foreign citizens and residents of the following countries from boarding flights arriving in Israel," the notice added.

Airlines were ordered to screen passengers before departure and verify whether they had recently stayed in or travelled through the affected countries.

According to the Israeli government, a nyone found to have recently visited the restricted countries, including Kenya, must be denied boarding.

However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration noted that the restrictions do  not apply to Israeli citizens or permanent residents.

"For the avoidance of doubt, this directive does not apply to Israeli citizens or Israeli residents. Your strict compliance with these directives and your cooperation are highly appreciated," the Border Control Department clarified.

The directive comes as several governments continue to tighten border controls and enhance health screening in response to the Ebola outbreak that has spread across parts of Central Africa.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke