The federal government is warning Americans to “exercise increased caution” when traveling overseas as tensions mount over Israel’s war with the terrorist group Hamas in the Mideast.
“Due to increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests, the Department of State advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution,” the department said in a “Worldwide Caution” alert posted Thursday.
Sometimes violent protests have erupted worldwide after Hamas operatives initiated a sneak attack on Israel on Oct. 7 that led to the deaths of more than 1,200 Israeli citizens, including dozens of Americans. Israel responded, firing missiles into Gaza daily targeting Hamas strongholds.
A large group of pro-Palestinian protesters entered a government building on Capitol Hill on Wednesday demanding a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas.
The State Department also is working with U.S. embassies abroad on security reviews in anticipation of potential attacks, ABC News reporter.
Separately, both President Joe Biden and FBI Director Christopher Wray have said the potential for a terrorist attack on U.S. soil has increased because of the war in the Middle East.
“In this heightened environment, there’s no question we’re seeing an increase in reported threats, and we’ve got to be on the lookout, especially for lone actors who may take inspiration from recent events to commit violence of their own,” Wray told police chiefs at the International Police Chiefs Association in San Diego this past weekend, as The Center Square previously reported.
Domestic terrorism concerns also are elevated as a record number of known, suspected terrorists have been apprehended attempting to enter the U.S. over the past year.
