State Department Issues Overall Travel Warning

21.05.2024 - 18:36 / travelpulse.com / North America / Rich Thomaselli

The United States Department of State has issued a warning to all Americans who are traveling abroad – be cautious.

The warning is because of rising tensions in many parts of the world and anti-American sentiment.

This is unusual because even though warnings are usually for specific areas or regions and not worldwide, there is a heightened sense of security.

There are currently wars in Ukraine and Gaza as well as terrorist attacks in the Middle East and protests on college campuses in the U.S. That’s not to mention issues in such places as Haiti and elsewhere.

The alert also mentions potential violence against the LGBTQIA+ community. Pride Month begins shortly, on June 1. There are numerous related parades and events set to take place so the State Department is urging vigilance. The department is concerned that foreign terrorist organizations will try to disrupt events.

It is also asking travelers to enroll in STEP, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, to receive real-time information and alerts.

“We are aware of the increased potential for foreign terrorist organization-inspired violence against LGBTQI+ persons and events and advise U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution,” the warning reads. 

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