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This
Public Announcement is being updated to alert Americans to an
increased potential for anti-American violence, including
terrorist actions against U.S. citizens, as a result of the
military action in Iraq. The U.S. Government remains deeply
concerned about the security of Americans overseas. American
citizens are reminded that it is more important than ever to
maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps
to increase their security awareness. This Worldwide Caution
supersedes that issued on February 6, 2003 and expires on July
20, 2003.
As
a result of military action in Iraq, there is a potential for
retaliatory actions to be taken against U.S. citizens and
interests throughout the world. Public demonstrations carry the
potential for precipitating violence directed at American
citizens, symbols associated with the United States or other
U.S. and western interests.
The
threat to U.S. citizens includes the risk of attacks by
terrorist groups. Terrorist actions may include, but are not
limited to, suicide operations, bombings or kidnappings.
Possible threats include conventional weapons such as explosive
devices or non-conventional weapons, including chemical or
biological agents. Terrorists do not distinguish between
official and civilian targets. These may include facilities
where Americans and other foreigners congregate or visit, such
as residential areas, clubs, restaurants, places of worship,
schools, hotels, outdoor recreation events or resorts and
beaches. U.S. citizens should increase their security awareness
at such locations, avoid them, or switch to other locations
where Americans in large numbers generally do not congregate.
U.S. Government facilities worldwide remain at a heightened
state of alert and some have drawn down their dependents and/or
personnel. These facilities may temporarily close or suspend
public services from time to time for security reasons. In those
instances, U.S. embassies and consulates will make every effort
to provide emergency services to American citizens. Monitor the
local news and maintain contact with the nearest American
embassy or consulate.
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