The U.S. State Department has updated some of its travel warnings. Continue reading to learn about the updates.
Worldwide Caution
The U.S. Department of State is providing advice to American travelers and has issued a worldwide caution. The most recent update was issued on November 17.
“Due to increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests, the Department of State advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution.”
Currently, Ukraine continues to experience conflicts, and in the past October, tensions escalated in the Middle East due to an attack on Israeli citizens by the terrorist group Hamas. Consequently, several airlines and cruise lines have chosen to cancel their plans for the Middle East, and Russian airspace has been closed.
U.S. Travel Advisory for Peru
Peru is still under warning level 2, meaning that increased caution is needed. The travel alert has been updated with fresh cautions regarding crime in the nation, though. Visitors to Peru are urged to travel with extra caution due to the country’s high crime rate, civil upheaval, and potential for kidnapping.
Do not travel to:
- Exercise caution in the border region between Colombia and Peru within the Loreto Region due to criminal activity.
- Additionally, stay vigilant in the Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM), covering territories in the Departments of Ayacucho, Cusco, Huancavelica, and Junin, where risks related to crime and terrorism are present.
U.S. Travel Advisory for Belize – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
You should exercise increased caution because of Belize’s high crime rate. Certain areas carry a greater risk than others.
Even in daylight and popular tourist areas, incidents of violent crimes like sexual assaults, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder are frequent. A notable portion of violent crimes are attributed to gang-related activities. Caution is advised for travelers in the southern region of Belize City due to its high crime rate. The local police lack adequate resources and expertise to combat major crimes, resulting in many crimes going unsolved and unpunished.
U.S. Travel Advisory for Israel
Reevaluate your travel plans due to the presence of terrorism and civil unrest. The security environment remains unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are urged to stay vigilant, taking necessary measures to enhance their security awareness. Security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire, frequently occur without warning.
Do Not Travel To:
- Gaza due to terrorism and armed conflict
Reconsider Travel To:
- Israel due to terrorism and civil unrest
- West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest
If you decide to travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.
- Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and facilitate emergency location tracking.
- Stay updated by following the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Familiarize yourself with the Country Security Report for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.
- Develop a contingency plan for emergencies and refer to the Traveler’s Checklist for guidance.
U.S. Travel Advisory for South Africa – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution in South Africa due to crime and civil unrest.
Armed robberies, rapes, carjackings, muggings, and “smash-and-grab” attacks on cars are examples of violent crime that occurs frequently. Major cities’ central commercial districts are more likely to experience violent crime after dark.
Relying on GPS navigation may result in unsafe routes, as it might propose shortcuts through townships as the fastest option, increasing the risk of encountering crime.
Demonstrations, protests and strikes occur frequently. These can develop quickly and without notice, often disrupting traffic, transportation and other services; such events can turn violent.