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LOS ANGELES — When Homeland returns Oct. 5 for a new season, viewers will find Carrie Mathison (Claire Danes) in Pakistan assigned to one of the most dangerous stations in the Middle East. But for a brief period during the season's development, producers almost took the story in a different direction that could have created big problems for the Showtime hit.

"We spent about two weeks seriously considering the possibility of setting the season in Israel," co-creator Alex Gansa revealed Friday during the Television Critics Association press tour, responding to a question about the show's balance of storyline and sensitivity of subject. "All I can tell you is that we're very happy we didn't do that."

Increasing tensions between Israel and Hamas have led to numerous deaths and ongoing distress in the area. The Gaza Ministry of Health says the death toll in Gaza is now up to 274, with 2,065 injured.

Producers on USA's limited series DIG, which filmed its pilot in Jerusalem, told reporters last week that production was on an extended hiatus as a result of the violence and, while not their first preference, they were exploring the possibility of relocating. FX's Tyrant has moved its production from Tel Aviv to Turkey.

"One of the great things about Homeland ... is that we really do get a chance to comment on what's happening in the world in a very immediate way," Gansa added.

Filming for the upcoming 12-episode season of Homeland is currently underway in South Africa, a decision that was made for "infrastructure" reasons as well as safety and security issues, according to producers.

"There are interesting stories to tell there for sure," added writer Alexander Cary of Israel, "but Pakistan is the one we eventually landed on."

The end of Homeland's Season 3 saw the death of Damien Lewis' Brody and the appointment of Carrie to a new post. The new season will explore her new position and introduce several new characters, including Life of Pi star Suraj Sharma.