More than 1,000 people are already understood to have died in this latest chapter in the conflict, which began on Saturday morning (7 October). The FCDO has advised against all but essential travel to both territories, and all travel to areas nearest the fighting.

"There is currently a large-scale conflict happening in areas of southern Israel close to the border with Gaza," said the FCDO, which had advised anyone in the area to follow the instructions of the Israeli Home Front Command.

"The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country. International borders (air and land) in Israel and the OPTs could close at short notice. You should check with your airlines and travel insurers before travelling," the FCDO added.

EasyJet has paused flight operations to Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion airport due to the "evolving situation", as has Wizz Air. Many other European and US carriers have suspended flights to Israel, although Ben Gurion airport remains open.

British Airways and Israeli carrier El Al are continuing to operate to and from the airport. El Al said it was operating "in accordance with the instructions of Israeli security forces".