JERUSALEM (AA)

The U.S. Embassy in Israel on Wednesday warned its nationals of a rise in violent acts linked to competition among organized crime gangs, urging them to exercise caution.

In an advisory statement, the U.S. Embassy said it is "closely monitoring reports of escalating violence linked to competition among Israeli organized crime gangs."

It noted that these attacks appear to target "businesses and homes associated with the involved gangs, particularly in neighborhoods of Tel Aviv, Jaffa, and Herzliya."

It continued: "Reports indicate that the attacks have included throwing hand grenades or stun grenades at private homes, vehicles, or commercial properties, often by attackers on motorcycles."

The U.S. Embassy added: "Israeli police have responded to this escalation in violence by conducting law enforcement operations to disrupt violent criminal activity and arrest leaders believed responsible for these attacks."

It called on U.S. citizens in Israel to exercise caution when in commercial areas of Tel Aviv, Jaffa, and Herzliya (central), especially during the evening and night hours.

It also recommended avoiding areas with a heightened security presence or police cordons, and following the instructions of local law enforcement authorities.

The embassy statement did not specify particular incidents that prompted the warning.

Meanwhile, Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth reported that the warning came in the wake of a series of hand grenade attacks targeting branches of the "Kofix" chain of drinks and snacks in various parts of Israel, by throwing hand grenades at them.

Reports indicate that in recent years, Israel has seen a rise in violence linked to organized crime organizations, including shootings and extortion, while police say they are intensifying efforts to combat these groups, particularly in the north and center of the country.