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Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
Citing rise in rape cases, US issues revised travel advisory for India
Amritsar: The United States (US) has issued a revised travel advisory for India, citing a sharp rise in rape cases, along with concerns over violent crime and terrorism, particularly in areas frequented by tourists. In its updated guidance, the US warned American citizens to exercise increased caution when travelling to India, stating that rape remains one of the fastest-growing crimes in the country. Incidents of sexual assault, including those against foreign visitors, have been reported in both urban areas and tourist destinations. "Violent crime, such as sexual assault, occurs at tourist sites and other public locations," the advisory states, adding that travellers should be especially cautious in crowded or isolated areas and avoid venturing out alone after dark. The advisory also discourages travel along the India-Pakistan border due to the risk of armed conflict, with only the Attari-Wagah crossing in Punjab open to non-citizens. "India and Pakistan have a strong military presence on their respective sides of the border. The only official border crossing for non-citizens of India or Pakistan is in Punjab. It is between Attari, India, and Wagah, Pakistan," reads the advisory emphasises that US citizens not residing in India must obtain a Pakistani visa from their home country before any cross-border travel. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Perdagangkan CFD Emas dengan Broker Tepercaya IC Markets Mendaftar Undo The advisory further flags the persistent threat of terrorist attacks across the country, warning that such incidents may occur with little or no warning, especially in public spaces like markets, transportation hubs, govt buildings, and tourist spots. High-risk regions are clearly outlined, with the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir listed under a "do not travel" directive—excluding the eastern Ladakh region and Leh. The advisory highlights the potential for terrorist violence and civil unrest, particularly in areas such as Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam, all popular with domestic and foreign tourists. Notably, terrorists had shot dead 26 tourists in Pahalgam on April 22. While the advisory does not call for a complete halt to travel, it asks Americans to stay informed, avoid high-risk regions, and enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for timely updates and access to emergency services. The US govt also advises travellers to regularly monitor local media, follow the advice of local authorities, and review the full travel advisory on the US State Department's official website. MSID: 122087318 413 |
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Politics
- Yahoo
U.S. Issues Urgent Worldwide Travel Warning Amid Rising Threats
The U.S. State Department has issued a rare worldwide security alert urging American citizens traveling abroad to exercise heightened caution amid escalating global unrest. The bulletin, posted on June 22, follows the recent U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites—a move that has further inflamed tensions in the Middle East. According to the department, the conflict between Israel and Iran has already disrupted travel and forced the periodic closure of airspace across the region. Now, the ripple effects are being felt far beyond. "There is potential for demonstrations against U.S. citizens and interests abroad," the State Department warned. "We urge all travelers to remain alert and monitor country-specific advisories for updates." The advisory comes just one day after the president confirmed the airstrikes as part of "Operation Midnight Hammer," a campaign aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear capabilities. Iranian officials quickly promised retaliation, raising fears of anti-American backlash around the world. Travelers are being advised to avoid areas with a history of political unrest and to steer clear of large gatherings. In countries like Turkey, U.S. officials are reportedly maintaining a low profile and avoiding non-essential travel to certain provinces, citing potential threats tied to anti-American sentiment. The State Department's global caution alert suggests that violent extremists may seek to exploit the current climate to launch attacks, particularly in high-traffic public spaces such as markets, government buildings, and tourist hotspots. American citizens are encouraged to check the State Department's website for country-specific updates regularly and to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time safety notifications. While the U.S. frequently issues travel advisories, a global alert of this nature signals a more serious level of concern. The Department urges travelers to have contingency plans, keep their contact information updated, and remain in touch with local embassies and consulates. With geopolitical tensions running high, this alert serves as a sobering reminder: even routine travel may now carry heightened risks.U.S. Issues Urgent Worldwide Travel Warning Amid Rising Threats first appeared on Men's Journal on Jun 23, 2025
The Herald Scotland
6 days ago
- The Herald Scotland
State Department cautions American travelers after US strikes on Iran
The State Department has issued other worldwide cautions in recent years, including May 2024, when it warned of potential threats to LGBTQ+ travelers, and October 2023, amid the Israel-Hamas war. Here's what travelers should know this time. Is it safe to travel the world right now? Generally, yes. The worldwide caution is exactly that: general advice. However, there are a host of destinations the State Department urges Americans not to visit due to safety concerns, which can be found on the travel area of its website. Those include Iran and Israel, as well as places like Ukraine, Somalia and more. Earlier this month, the State Department authorized the departures of family members of U.S. government employees and select non-emergency U.S. government employees in Israel. The State Department also helped U.S. citizens leave Israel, but notes Iranian air space is closed and U.S. citizens hoping to leave Iran should go by land, when they feel it's safe to do so. Sunday's worldwide caution noted that travel may be disrupted across the Middle East due to the "conflict between Israel and Iran." 'Don't know how we should behave': Is the US South LGBTQ friendly? How do you stay safe while traveling? Safety starts at home. Before departing, travelers are urged to research their destinations and check the State Department's country-specific travel advisories and security alerts. Travelers are also encouraged to enroll in the State Department's free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) so they can receive embassy messages and alerts and be more easily located in the event of an emergency. Preparing a list of emergency contacts and an independent exit strategy is also helpful, since the U.S. government may not always be able to assist in evacuations. While abroad, travelers are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings and monitor local news for updates if a crisis or disaster arises. Additional tips and a Traveler's Checklist are available on the State Department's website.
USA Today
6 days ago
- USA Today
Is it safe to travel abroad right now? Worldwide caution issued after US strikes on Iran
The State Department is urging Americans to be careful abroad, after this weekend's U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. 'There is the potential for demonstrations against U.S. citizens and interests abroad,' according to a security alert issued Sunday. Protests against U.S. involvement in the conflict have already erupted domestically and overseas. The Department of State advises U.S. citizens worldwide to exercise increased caution.' The State Department has issued other worldwide cautions in recent years, including May 2024, when it warned of potential threats to LGBTQ+ travelers, and October 2023, amid the Israel-Hamas war. Here's what travelers should know this time. Is it safe to travel the world right now? Generally, yes. The worldwide caution is exactly that: general advice. However, there are a host of destinations the State Department urges Americans not to visit due to safety concerns, which can be found on the travel area of its website. Those include Iran and Israel, as well as places like Ukraine, Somalia and more. Earlier this month, the State Department authorized the departures of family members of U.S. government employees and select non-emergency U.S. government employees in Israel. The State Department also helped U.S. citizens leave Israel, but notes Iranian air space is closed and U.S. citizens hoping to leave Iran should go by land, when they feel it's safe to do so. Sunday's worldwide caution noted that travel may be disrupted across the Middle East due to the 'conflict between Israel and Iran." 'Don't know how we should behave': Is the US South LGBTQ friendly? How do you stay safe while traveling? Safety starts at home. Before departing, travelers are urged to research their destinations and check the State Department's country-specific travel advisories and security alerts. Travelers are also encouraged to enroll in the State Department's free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) so they can receive embassy messages and alerts and be more easily located in the event of an emergency. Preparing a list of emergency contacts and an independent exit strategy is also helpful, since the U.S. government may not always be able to assist in evacuations. While abroad, travelers are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings and monitor local news for updates if a crisis or disaster arises. Additional tips and a Traveler's Checklist are available on the State Department's website.
Hindustan Times
7 days ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Trump issues worldwide travel alert for Americans amid Israel-Iran conflict: Here are dos and don'ts
The Donald Trump-led State Department on Sunday posted a 'Worldwide Caution' on its travel alert page, citing the conflict between Israel and Iran. This comes a day after the US struck three Iranian nuclear bases. Trump stated that he is not ruling out a regime change in Iran. Donald Trump issued a travel alert for Americans worldwide(AP) In its latest alert, the State Department said: 'The conflict between Israel and Iran has resulted in disruptions to travel and periodic closure of airspace across the Middle East.' Officials further warned Americans about potential demonstrations against US citizens and interests. 'The Department of State advises U.S. citizens worldwide to exercise increased caution. Please read carefully our Travel Advisory, country information, and any recent security alerts when planning travel,' the press release read. Read More: How China, Pak, others reacted to US airstrikes on Iran: 'Catastrophic consequences' Meanwhile, the department also posted an update on Israel and the West Bank, saying the embassy in Jerusalem and Branch Office Tel Aviv will not be open to provide emergency US passport services on Monday, June 23. 'US citizens seeking to depart Israel or the West Bank should take the first available option, even if it is not your first choice of destination. Ben Gurion Airport remains closed, and there are still no regularly scheduled commercial or charter flights operating from there." Dos for Americans Abroad Monitor Local Conditions: Check country-specific travel advisories on for real-time updates on security risks. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at to receive alerts and facilitate emergency contact. Maintain a Personal Safety Plan: Prepare for unexpected crises by identifying safe locations, keeping emergency contacts updated, and ensuring your phone is charged, per the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia's security alert. Consider Evacuation Options: In Israel, contact the US Embassy for evacuation flights or cruise ships, as announced by Ambassador Mike Huckabee. Read More: Every US citizen a 'target': Iran after US strikes on Isfahan, Natanz and Fordow nuclear sites Don'ts for Americans Abroad Do Not Travel to High-Risk Areas: Avoid travel to Israel, Iraq, or Iran due to armed conflict, terrorism, and civil unrest. The State Department explicitly warns against travel to Iran, advising those present to shelter in place. Avoid Large Gatherings: Steer clear of protests or crowds, which may target US citizens or interests, especially in the Middle East. Do Not Ignore Airspace Closures: Refrain from planning air travel through regions with closed airspace, such as Israel or Iran, where commercial flights are limited.
