Due to the “potential for terrorist attacks,” the US State Department issued a worldwide alert on Thursday advising American citizens living abroad to exercise caution.
As Israel continues its counteroffensive in the Gaza Strip against Hamas, a terrorist group that has killed over 1,400 Israelis and taken over 100 civilians hostage since October 7, tensions in the Middle East have sharply increased.
Due to the possibility of additional terrorist attacks, large-scale protests, and violence against Americans, the State Department sent out a “Worldwide Caution Security Alert” to all American nationals traveling abroad.
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“The Department of State advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution due to increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests,” the statement said.
The State Department also provided a list of suggestions for Americans traveling abroad.
These included signing up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive emergency alerts and resources for emergency evacuation. Additionally, it suggested that Americans traveling abroad stay in populated or tourist-heavy areas.
Just north of Israel, in Lebanon, the State Department jointly warned American nationals to “make appropriate arrangements to leave the country” and, for those who choose to remain, to “prepare contingency plans for emergency situations.”
The Biden administration is “working 24/7” with Americans residing in Israel and Gaza to try and set up travel arrangements outside of the area.
The alert warns Americans in Gaza to exercise caution when using evacuation routes to Egypt due to the “fluid and unpredictable” situation at the Rafah crossing.
A request for comment was not immediately answered by the State Department.
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