The State Department has alerted U.S. citizens to the potential for terrorist attacks in Europe and the risks of travel to the Sudan.
In respect of Europe the State Department warned; “Current information suggests that al-Qa’ida and affiliated organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks. European governments have taken action to guard against a terrorist attack and some have spoken publicly about the heightened threat conditions. Terrorists may elect to use a variety of means and weapons and target both official and private interests. U.S. citizens are reminded of the potential for terrorists to attack public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure. Terrorists have targeted and attacked subway and rail systems, as well as aviation and maritime services. U.S. citizens should take every precaution to be aware of their surroundings and to adopt appropriate safety measures to protect themselves when traveling. We continue to work closely with our European allies on the threat from international terrorism, including al-Qa’ida. Information is routinely shared between the U.S. and our key partners in order to disrupt terrorist plotting, identify and take action against potential operatives, and strengthen our defenses against potential threats.”
In respect of the Sudan the US State Department commented; “The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the risks of travel to Sudan, and recommends that U.S. citizens defer all travel to Sudan because of uncertain security conditions and the possibility of violence and harassment targeting westerners. This Travel Warning for Sudan replaces the Travel Warning issued on December 31, 2009, to update security concerns. U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Sudan despite the Travel Warning should maintain contingency plans to depart on short notice in the event of an emergency. The U.S. Embassy is committed to assisting U.S. citizens to the extent possible, but the Embassy’s ability to assist is limited, and dependent on the permissiveness of the security environment in Sudan. The ability of the Embassy to provide assistance to U.S. citizens is particularly limited in Southern Sudan, and in Darfur.”