- US State Department issues “worldwide” travel advisory, urging vigilance due to potential terrorist attacks or violence, citing heightened global tensions
- Emergency security assessments and departures authorized, with specific high-risk regions, reflecting the department’s commitment to American citizens’ safety.
The US State Department has issued a “worldwide” travel advisory to Americans, cautioning them to exercise increased vigilance to avoid potential terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violence targeting US citizens and interests abroad. This advisory is a response to heightened tensions in various global locations.
The department urged US citizens overseas to remain alert when visiting places frequented by tourists, emphasizing the need for caution due to the current global environment.
This advisory comes following the last issued warning in August 2022, after a counterterrorism strike in Afghanistan that killed al-Qaida leader Ayman al-Zawahiri. At that time, US officials had cautioned that supporters of al-Qa’ida or its affiliated terrorist organizations might seek to target US facilities, personnel, or citizens.
Additionally, ABC News reported that the State Department has instructed its embassies and consulates worldwide to conduct emergency security assessments amid ongoing protests sparked by international conflicts. Furthermore, the department has authorized non-emergency US government personnel and their family members to depart from countries that have raised their travel advisories to the highest level.
Countries falling under this category include Russia, China, North Korea, Israel, and Lebanon. For African countries, those with the highest levels of travel alerts include Niger, Libya, South Sudan, Mali, Burkina Faso, and the Central African Republic. Nigeria is listed under a tier of caution alert, with specific states highlighted as areas to avoid due to the risks of terrorism and kidnapping. Additionally, some Nigerian states are flagged for issues related to crime, kidnapping, and armed gangs.
The US State Department’s issuance of this worldwide travel warning reflects its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of American citizens traveling or residing abroad amid evolving global circumstances.
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