THE The US Department of State announced a global travel advisory for those traveling abroad due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The agency cited particular caution regarding travel to “at risk” areas, such as Israel, Gaza and the West Bank.
Fights broke out on October 7 in Israel after Hamas launched an attack, killing and capturing more than 1,000 people. The Israeli Defense Forces responded quickly, sparking a war between the country and Hamas, which controls the besieged Gaza Strip.
Since the attack, the Palestinian death toll has exceeded 5,000, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health on Monday. The Associated Press reported that the Israeli death toll rises to 1,400.
The conflict is taking place against a backdrop of religious tensions, an Israeli government in turmoil over judicial reform and an increase in Israeli military raids in the Palestinian territories.
What is a travel advisory?
The Department of State issues travel advisories for incidents involving war, political unrest, civil unrest, and other instances that may impact global travel.
On October 19, the agency issued a global cautionary advisory due to “increased tensions in various regions of the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, protests or violent actions against citizens and interests Americans.”
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Who is the travel advice for?
According to Tim Roemer, former director of Arizona Homeland Security, this warning concerns all Americans traveling abroad, even outside the Middle East. Now the head of security for a private sector company, Roemer spent 18 years in government service, including as a CIA agent and in charge of cybersecurity for the state of Arizona.
This type of situation risks spreading to other regions, he said.
“A lot of copycat violence takes place around the world whenever there are international incidents like this,” Roemer said. “These types of wars tend to spark a lot of outrage.”
The travel warning has been strengthened globally due to increased violence not only concentrated in a specific region, but potentially affecting areas in Europe, according to Roemer.
“This is serious advice coming from the State Department. They don't take these things lightly.”
What can international travelers do to stay safe while the advisory is in effect?
Roemer believes it is more important than ever to exercise caution when traveling abroad, which includes always paying attention to your surroundings, having a heightened sense of alertness, and communicating regularly with friends and your family remaining in the country. He also said it is imperative to pay attention to current events.
“Look at what's going on. You don't want to get stuck somewhere ignoring what's going on in the world,” Roemer said.
Although the advisory will remain active for as long as the State Department deems it relevant, Roemer advised Americans traveling abroad to remain vigilant, especially if they witness unusual or suspicious activity.
“If you see something that seems out of the ordinary, say so. Don't keep it to yourself,” Roemer said. “Report it (to local law enforcement). It could actually be very important and make a huge difference.”
Roemer also encouraged travelers to be more organized and have contingency plans when traveling abroad, especially for those already abroad. This means knowing all the airports in your area and being prepared for the unexpected.
“In an emergency, you won’t have good communication,” Roemer said. “Your devices probably won't connect in certain situations. A number of things could happen.” For those considering traveling abroad, including to areas of Europe bordering territories in West Asia, Roemer suggested postponing or reconsidering the decision at that time, depending on location.
Travelers can also enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STAGE), a free service that allows U.S. citizens traveling and living abroad to connect with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. The federal program also sends emergency alerts, which can be sent to your email and any smart device.
