Foreign Ministry Issues Urgent Warning: "Don't Go to Jalisco, Mexico"

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a severe travel warning on Sunday evening for Israelis staying in or planning to visit the state of Jalisco, Mexico. The ministry urged citizens to exercise "extreme caution" and immediately updated its safety guidelines following a violent surge in the region.

According to the official statement, travel to the following areas is not recommended until further notice unless for vital needs coordinated with airlines and local authorities:

"Until further notice, it is not recommended to arrive at these airport areas unless it is an essential need," the ministry stated, adding that all non-essential travel throughout the state of Jalisco should be avoided.

The security escalation follows the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, famously known as "El Mencho," the leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).

Mexican defense officials confirmed that Cervantes was killed during a high-stakes military operation in the town of Tapalpa. The operation turned into a bloody firefight when soldiers were met with heavy resistance from cartel members. The battle resulted in the deaths of four of the leader’s bodyguards and three others who later succumbed to their wounds, including "El Mencho" himself.

The cartel’s response to the killing was immediate and brutal. In Guadalajara, one of Mexico’s largest cities and a designated host for the upcoming World Cup, residents reported:

Massive Roadblocks: Armed militants seized and set fire to cars to block major transit arteries.

Heavy Weaponry: Authorities seized armored vehicles and rocket launchers capable of piercing armor and Downing aircraft during the raid.

The Foreign Ministry's warning remains in effect as local security forces struggle to contain the retaliatory violence spreading through the state.