Shortly after the news leaked that Osama Bin Laden was killed during a stealth attack on his alleged hide-out in an upscale high-security compound in Pakinstan, the State Department issued alerts to U.S. citizens.
Americans have been urged not to travel, if necessary, or - in the alternative - to be especially wary in the wake of the Al Qaeda leader's death.
Officials have reported that cells - or soldiers of terrorism - were instructed tby Osama Bin Laden prior to his death, to retaliate against responsible parties in that event.
Authorites are not prepared to state whether these individuals are "lone wolves" or how great a threat they pose to the security and well-being of Americans on these shores and abroad.
American citizens are, therefore, urged to either refrain from travelling overseas at this time - or, in the alternative - join the STEP program mapped out by the U.S. State Department to avoid potential danger, kidnapping, or bodily harm.
Reasonable, when you consider that, shortly after Osama Bin Laden's death earlier this evening, a handful of individuals were assaulted (pelted with eggs) in a drive-by in the Los Angeles area.
In sum, the U.S. Department of State has determined that there is an enhanced potential for anti-American sentiments, given the recent counter-terrorism activity in Pakistan.
Given the uncertainty and volatility of the current situation, U.S. citizens in areas where recent events could trigger attacks, are strongly urged to limit their travel outside of their homes and hotels and avoid mass gatherings and demonstrations.
U.S. citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times.
This Travel Alert expires August 1st, 2011.
U.S. Embassy operations in affected areas will continue to the extent possible under the constraints of any evolving security situation.
U.S. government facilities worldwide remain at a heightened state of alert.
These facilities may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture.
In those instances, U.S. Embassies and Consulates will make every effort to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens.
U.S. citizens abroad are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Because media overage of local events may cause family and friends to become concerned for their loved ones traveling and residing abroad, they are urged to keep in regular contact.
Officials assert that joining the STEP program at the U.S. State Department is the best way to to receive the latest travel updates related to security and safety issues.
U.S. citizens without Internet access may register directly with the appropriate U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the U.S. Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.
Travel information is also available at:
www.travel.state.gov.
Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling:
1--888-407-4747 (toll-free)
(United States and Canada)
Callers outside the United States and Canada may avail themselves of a toll line:
1-202-501-4444
INFO
“What the Department of State Can and Can’t Do in a Crisis”
U.S. citizens should consult the "Country Specific" Information pages, Travel Alerts, and Travel Warnings at the State Department site.
Americans are also urged to be exercise Worldwide Caution.
www.travel.state.gov.
U.S. State Department issues world-wide Terrorist Alert!
