The US Department of State has reissued its travel advisory for Turkey, urging American citizens to exercise increased caution when visiting this popular international destination. This renewed warning comes as part of a periodic review process. It highlights ongoing concerns about terrorism and arbitrary detentions in the country.
The travel advisory, which maintains Turkey at Level 2 (“Exercise Increased Caution”), does not result from any specific terrorist event. Instead, it stems from a routine assessment of the country’s current situation. The State Department emphasizes that terrorist groups continue to plot potential attacks in Turkey. These could occur with little to no warning and may target tourist locations.
Areas Of Concern In Turkey
While the advisory applies to the entire country, it warns against travel to specific regions. The US government strongly advises against visiting Sirnak and Hakkari provinces. It also warns against travel to any area within six miles of the Syrian border. These areas are considered high-risk due to the potential for terrorist activities. Travelers should exercise extreme caution and, if possible, avoid these regions entirely.
The advisory highlights several vital risks that American travelers should be aware of. Terrorism remains a significant concern, with tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas being potential targets for terrorist attacks.
Arbitrary detentions are another issue to consider. The Turkish security forces have detained numerous individuals, including US citizens, for alleged ties to terrorist groups. These detentions are often based on scant or secret evidence and may appear politically motivated. Additionally, some US citizens have been subject to exit bans, preventing them from leaving Turkey. Participating in unauthorized protests or criticizing the Turkish government, including on social media platforms, can lead to arrest.
Precautions For Visitors
To ensure a safe trip, the State Department recommends that travelers stay vigilant in tourist-heavy areas and avoid demonstrations and crowds. Choosing accommodations with identifiable security measures is advisable. Travelers should also monitor local media for current events and information and be prepared to adjust travel plans if necessary. Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates on travel advisories is highly recommended.
