SerpApi.Org
The State Department is urging travelers to exercise increased caution worldwide amid escalating tensions and the potential for travel disruptions.
On July 18, the U.S. State Department issued a rare worldwide warning for Americans traveling or living abroad. The new travel advisory warns of “unforeseen escalation” worldwide due to tensions between the U.S. and Iran.
In the warning, the State Department shared that U.S. diplomatic facilities in and outside of the Middle East have been targeted, adding that overseas locations that are associated with the U.S. or Americans (like embassies, consulates, or even U.S.-owned hotel brands or businesses) may be particularly vulnerable to attacks. The warning, which was released for worldwide travel, notes that any location associated with the U.S. or American people around the world is an easy target for groups supportive of Iran.
The agency also warned that international travel could be disrupted due to airspace closures and necessary flight cancellations.
“The Department of State advises Americans worldwide, and especially in the Middle East, to exercise increased caution,” the State Department said in the travel advisory. “Americans abroad should follow the guidance in security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.”
On July 19, one day after the worldwide travel alert was released, the U.S. State Department shared that it had learned Iran planned to target locations in central Manama, the capital city of Bahrain, an island nation just south of Iran. That day, Iran fired drones and missiles at Bahrain, along with Kuwait and Jordan, following eight consecutive nights of attacks on Iran by the U.S.
“We urge all Americans to remain vigilant, follow local authorities’ instructions, and review the latest guidance from the U.S. Embassy,” stated the warning, which was updated on July 20. The alert suggested seeking cover in the lowest level of a home or building, away from doors or windows, if you hear a loud explosion or warning sirens.
Americans who are currently traveling or living abroad should enroll at step.state.gov to receive the latest security alerts and should monitor breaking news. The State Department also suggests following the “U.S. Department of State - Security Updates for U.S. Citizens” channel on WhatsApp or following @TravelGov on X.
U.S. travelers who are preparing to go abroad should look up their destination on travel.ttate.gov to see if there are any travel advisories or recent alerts. At the time of writing, there are 23 countries with a Level 4, Do Not Travel advisory from the U.S., including Iran, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
Read the original article on Travel & Leisure
