The US State Department has issued a worldwide caution to all US citizens, urging increased vigilance due to heightened tensions globally, potential terrorist attacks, and potential violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.
This alert comes as protests erupt throughout the Middle East after the Israel-Hamas conflict, with several targeting US diplomatic sites.
Recently, travel advisories for Lebanon and Israel were elevated, and non-emergency US personnel were authorized to leave.
This type of alert was last issued in August 2022 following the death of al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri.
Citizens abroad are advised to stay alert in tourist areas and enroll in the State Department’s STEP program.