State Department Issues Alert for Americans Traveling Abroad During Holidays

In the wake of Australia’s hostage crisis, the U.S. State Department is asking American travelers to “remain vigilant” this holiday season.

The U.S. State Department has issued a warning for Americans traveling abroad to be “extra cautious” this holiday season. The warning is not connected to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and does not affect any threat levels in airports or at other border crossings, according to a DHS spokesman.

The warning, issued on Friday, comes after an incident in Sydney, Australia where a gunman took 17 people hostage at a café last week for 16 hours. The siege ended in gunfire, with two hostages and the Iranian gunman dead.

The travel alert warns Americans to be “mindful that terrorist groups and those inspired by them can pose unpredictable threats in public venues.” The State Department also encouraged travelers going abroad to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive the latest security updates as well as information on the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in the event of an emergency.

“The lone wolf attack in Syndey, Australia … is a reminder that U.S. citizens should be extra cautious, maintain a very high level of vigilance, and take appropriate steps to enhance their personal security,” read a portion of the State Department’s warning.

The travel alert expires on March 19, 2015.

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