The U.S. State Department issued a “worldwide caution” alert on Thursday, urging U.S. citizens traveling abroad to “exercise increased caution” in response to the escalating tensions arising from Hamas’ recent terror attack on Israel and the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Officials cited the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests in various locations globally.
“Due to increased tensions in various locations around the world, the Department of State advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution,” stated the advisory. Travelers were also warned to “stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.”
This marked the first such warning since August 2022, following the counterterrorism strike in Afghanistan that resulted in the death of al-Qaida leader Ayman al-Zawahiri. At that time, U.S. officials cautioned about possible attacks by “supporters of al-Qa’ida, or its affiliated terrorist organizations.”
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In response to the ongoing protests sparked by the Israel-Hamas conflict, the State Department has been conducting emergency security reviews in its embassies and consulates worldwide. Sources familiar with the matter and documents reviewed by ABC News confirmed these actions. Secretary of State Antony Blinken instructed personnel to assess whether embassies should issue alerts to Americans in their respective countries regarding potential threats posed by the demonstrations. Several posts have requested modifications to their operations due to security concerns. However, as of now, no additional embassies have sought authorized departure, and none have requested a full evacuation.
The situation remains fluid as the State Department continues to monitor developments in the region and provide necessary guidance to U.S. citizens abroad.
