US issues ‘Do not travel’ advisory for 21 countries amid global tensions

As the summer travel season approaches, the U.S. State Department has issued its most severe travel advisory—Level 4: “Do Not Travel”—for 21 countries, citing heightened risks including armed conflict, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest. This advisory underscores the increasing volatility in various regions and aims to safeguard American travelers from potential dangers.

The countries currently under the Level 4 advisory are Afghanistan, Belarus, Burkina Faso, Burma (Myanmar), Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Mali, North Korea, Russia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela, and Yemen.

In addition to these nations, specific regions within countries like Mexico and areas such as Gaza have also been designated under the “Do Not Travel” advisory. For instance, Mexican states including Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas are flagged due to prevalent crime and kidnapping concerns.

The State Department’s travel advisory system ranges from Level 1 (“Exercise Normal Precautions”) to Level 4 (“Do Not Travel”). Level 4 advisories are reserved for countries where the risks to travelers are deemed exceptionally high and where the U.S. government’s ability to provide assistance is limited or nonexistent. Factors influencing such advisories include ongoing armed conflicts, political instability, widespread crime, and the absence of U.S. diplomatic presence.

Travelers are strongly encouraged to consult the State Department’s official travel advisory website before making international travel plans. Additionally, enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is advised. This free service allows U.S. citizens to receive real-time updates and alerts about safety conditions in their destination country and facilitates communication with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in case of emergencies.

While the allure of exploring diverse cultures and landscapes remains strong, the State Department emphasizes the importance of prioritizing safety and staying informed about potential risks associated with international travel.

For the most current information on travel advisories and safety recommendations, visit the U.S. State Department’s official travel advisory page: Travel.