In July, the U.S. Department of State reissued 21 travel security alerts for various reasons, primarily related to terrorism and crime. We have listed the eight most relevant for you.
If you happen to be a US citizen, consider the importance of registering in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to keep yourself informed and help the government locate you in an emergency.
Israel and Lebanon
A terrorist attack carried out by the Lebanese terrorist group Hezbollah and Israel’s subsequent retaliation this week have prompted a growing number of countries to issue travel warnings encouraging citizens to avoid all travel to Lebanon and limit their travel to Israel in the face of an impending attack from both sides.
On July 31, the U.S. Department of State updated its travel advisory for Lebanon to “Level 4: Do not travel.”
Those who decide to travel to or stay in Lebanon despite the convincing advice should do so avoid at all costs visiting southern Lebanon, the border with Syria and the refugee settlements, or northern Israel, Gaza or the West Bank if they are in Israel.
In both cases, the government’s primary concerns include armed conflict, terrorism, kidnappings for ransom or political reasons, and the current very limited capacity of government agencies to provide assistance to U.S. citizens.
Taiwan – Level 1: Take normal precautions
The U.S. Department of State determined on July 30 that the island remains one of the safest places in the world for Americans to travel, ranking it “Level 1: Practice normal precautions.”
However, in recent days, the government has issued several weather warnings due to the current deadly typhoon season.
Last week, Typhoon Gaemi made landfall in Taiwan, killing more than 22 people.
Jamaica – Level 3: Reconsider travel
On July 25, the US government updated its travel advisory for Jamaica to reflect concerns about this “crime and healthcare” issues.
This country is ranked “Level 3: Rethink travel“, which means you need to be extra aware of your surroundings as they can be dangerous.
In some areas, crime is high and access to medical services is worryingly limited.
Please note that Jamaica does not accept US health insurance. You must therefore take out comprehensive traveler insurance before departure that covers medical evacuation.
Do not bring a firearm or ammunition as the prison sentences for possession of these artefacts are severe.
Sweden – Level 2: Be extra careful
The security situation in Sweden has therefore not changed in recent years the US government continues to express concern about possible terrorist attacks.
The country is ranked “Level 2: Be extra careful”, which suggests that it is not particularly dangerous, but the threat is still there.
‘A high terrorist threat, together with the status in general, means that the security situation in Sweden is serious’ said Charlotte von Essen, head of Sweden’s security service, earlier this year.
The country managed to stop a number of terrorist attacks in 2024. Therefore, avoid crowds and report suspicious activities.
Iran – Level 4: Do not travel
The US government is clear: “Don’t travel” to the Islamic Republic of Iran, for any reason.
On July 15, the government reissued its travel advice to reflect serious concerns about terrorism and the risk associated with participating in surrogacy tourism.
Be warned that Americans traveling to Iran are subject to arbitrary arrests. The situation is made worse if you are an American-Iranian.
The US government does not have any diplomatic or consular relationship with Iran, so if you get into trouble, you will be on your own. Dying or being injured in a terrorist attack is a real threat.
Be aware that companies offering surrogacy services in Iran lie about the country’s security situation to protect their unregulated activities.
If you decide to travel to Iran or are currently in Iran:
- Develop a personal safety plan.
- Openly discuss plans regarding child custody, your will, and funeral wishes with your family in the United States. (The same applies if you decide to travel to Gaza).
Maldives
On July 11, the US government reissued its travel advisory for the Maldives, with minor changes.
The country remains ranked at “Level 2: Be extra careful,‘, which is quite safe by American standards, but the terrorist threat remains active.
Be aware of your surroundings, as terrorist groups can attack tourist and government locations, as well as transportation hubs and shopping centers.
Trinidad and Tobago – Level 3: Reconsider travel
After a thorough evaluation, the US government has determined this Trinidad and Tobago continues to face serious problems with crime, terrorism and kidnapping. It was therefore decided toLevel 3: Rethink travel.“
U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the following areas, so you should follow suit.
In the port of Spain: Laventille, Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah during the day. And the center of Port of Spain, the view of Fort George and all the beaches after dark.
Please note that shootings occur regularly in this country.
