Israeli Foreign Ministry Urges Caution After Drug Lord’s Elimination in Mexico

The Israeli Foreign Ministry has issued a warning to citizens in western regions of Mexico following the elimination of one of the most wanted drug lords, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho.”

In their statement, Israeli diplomats noted that as a result of a military operation in the region, there have been roadblocks, vehicle and building arsons, as well as clashes with criminal groups. Various incidents and disruptions at airports have also been reported.

Israelis are strongly advised to avoid visiting areas around the airports of Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, as well as to refrain from traveling through the state of Jalisco unless absolutely necessary. They should also avoid crowded places and areas where security operations are taking place.

The Ministry urged citizens to follow local authorities’ instructions, stay updated with the news, and inform their relatives of their whereabouts.

Other countries have also issued similar warnings for their citizens in Mexico.

On February 22, it was reported that Mexican military forces eliminated Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, who led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The operation took place in the municipality of Talpa de Allende in Jalisco state, and the information about his death was confirmed by high-ranking officials of the Mexican government.

Following this operation, there were road blockages and vehicle arsons in six states across the country: Jalisco, Michoacán, Colima, Tamaulipas, Guanajuato, and Aguascalientes. This is a typical reaction from criminal groups to the arrests or eliminations of their leaders. Federal and regional forces were deployed to restore order.

CJNG, founded by El Mencho in 2010, is considered one of the most dangerous criminal organizations in Mexico. The cartel operates actively in more than 20 states and has international connections. U.S. authorities have offered a reward of $15 million for information regarding Oseguera’s whereabouts.