In the aftermath of the recent outbreak of war in Israel, instigated by the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas, the United States Department of State has issued a global cautionary advisory for its citizens.
The advisory warns of heightened tensions in various global locations, with the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.
The advisory explicitly states, "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."
The Department of State is urging U.S. citizens to remain vigilant in tourist-heavy locations, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, and stay updated through the Department's social media channels.
In addition to the general advisory, the State Department has provided specific guidance for U.S. citizens in the Middle East seeking to evacuate. For those in Israel, commercial flights out of Ben Gurion Airport are limited, and the US government is facilitating charter flights.
The Department's guidance emphasizes, "We urge those wishing to leave to take advantage of these charters while they are available." It also notes that flight departures will continue on a rolling basis until at least October 22.
For U.S. citizens in Gaza, the situation is more complex due to the ongoing military conflict between Israel and Hamas. The Department advises, "We anticipate that the situation at the Rafah crossing will remain fluid and unpredictable. If you assess it to be safe, you may wish to move closer to the Rafah border crossing there may be very little notice if the crossing opens, and it may only open for a limited time."
In Lebanon, where a U.S. Embassy was partially set ablaze, the Department recommends that U.S. citizens make arrangements to leave the country, as commercial options are still available.
The Department further advises, "We recommend that U.S. citizens who choose not to depart prepare contingency plans for emergency situations." This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.
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