Worldwide Warning to Americans
State Department Warns of Possible Terrorism
Guide Special: 8/5/99
The U.S. State Department has issued a Worldwide Warning to Americans In response to possible terrorists acts related to the first anniversary of the U.S. embassy bombings in Africa. The blasts occurred on August 7, 1998, killing 226 people.
While the warning is not a response to a specific threat, it is meant to emphasize the Department's concern for the safety of Americans traveling abroad over the days surrounding this August 7.
The State Department warns American travelers to, "...keep a low profile, vary routes and times for all required travel, and treat mail from unfamiliar sources with suspicion." The Department's statement goes on to suggest, "American citizens traveling or residing abroad should contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate by telephone or fax for up-to-date information on security conditions. In addition, U.S. citizens planning to travel abroad should consult the Department of State’s Public Announcements, Travel Warnings, Consular Information Sheets, and regional travel brochures."
Specifically named in the warning, is Saudi-born terrorist, Osama bin Laden, indicted by a New York grand jury for his involvement in the African embassy bombings. "In addition, terrorists, including Usama bin Ladin (who has been indicted for the 1998 bombings in Africa and for threatening to kill American citizens outside the United States), continue their threats against the United States and have not distinguished between military and civilian targets. The potential also exists for retaliatory acts against U.S. citizens in response to the U.S. worldwide pursuit and apprehension of terrorist suspects." -- U.S. State Department.
Entire State Department Warning Issued 8/4/99
Travel Warnings for Specific Countries
