US Issues Worldwide Travel Warning For Americans Traveling Abroad
The US State Department has issued a rare worldwide travel warning for Americans that are planning to travel abroad.
On July 18th the State Department gave a new travel advisory that warned of “unforeseen escalation” worldwide due to the tensions between the US and Iran.
Within the warning, the State Department shared that US diplomatic facilities within, and outside of, the Middle East have been targeted. Due to this, overseas locations that are associated with the US or Americans could be vulnerable to attacks. Places like embassies, consulates, or US-owned hotel brands or businesses, might be more vulnerable to attacks, according to the warnings.
Reports indicate that the warning was released for worldwide travel, and any location associated with the US or American people around the world are an easy target for Iran-supporting groups.
Additionally, the agency warned that international travel could also be disrupted due to airspace closures and flight cancellations.
The travel advisory from the State Department stated:
“The Department of State advises Americans worldwide, and especially in the Middle East, the exercise increased caution. Americans abroad should follow the guidance in security alerts issued by the nearest US embassy or consulate.”
One day after the worldwide travel alert was released, July 19th, the US State Department also stated that they have learned Iran planned to target locations in central Manama, the capital of Bahrain, an island nation just south of Iran.
On the same day, Iran fired drones and missiles at Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan after the US went through eight consecutive nights of attacks on Iran.
“We urge all Americans to remain vigilant, follow local authorities’ instructions, and review the latest guidance from the US Embassy,” the warning wrote.
The alert itself also gave the suggestion of seeking cover in the lowest level of a home or building, away from doors or windows, if travelers hear a loud explosion or warning sirens.
The State Department recommends that Americans who are currently traveling, living abroad, or planning to travel to one of the locations they’ve warned about, should enroll at step.state.gov to receive updates and the latest security alerts, as well as monitor breaking news.
The Department also recommends following the “U.S. Department of State – Security Updates for U.S. Citizens” channel on WhatsApp or following @TravelGov on X, (formally Twitter).
Additionally, US travelers who are preparing to take a trip can look up their destination on travel.ttate.gov to see if there are any active travel advisories or alerts. There are currently 23 nations with a Level 4, Do Not Travel advisory from the US.
Eric Mastrota is a Contributing Editor at The National Digest based in New York. A graduate of SUNY New Paltz, he reports on world news, culture, and lifestyle. You can reach him at eric.mastrota@thenationaldigest.com.