U.S. Issues 'Do Not Travel' Warning For New Country on July 3

For the first time this July, the U.S. Department of State has issued its first "Do Not Travel" warning. 

The U.S. Department of State is tasked with analyzing the risks and necessary precautions for Americans traveling to foreign destinations. If there are any concerns regarding a given country, the government will hand out an advisory ranging from Level 1-4. 

If a country receives a Level 4 advisory, that means it's unsafe for Americans to travel there. 

Well, the U.S. Department of State placed a Level 4 travel advisory on Lebanon on July 3 due to "crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and the risk of armed conflict." 

"The Department of State considers the threat to U.S. government personnel in Beirut serious enough to require them to live and work under strict security. The internal security policies of the U.S. Embassy may be adjusted at any time and without advance notice," the advisory for Lebanon states.

"Since October 8, 2023, cross-border exchanges of fire have occurred between Hizballah and Israel. In some instances, targets have been well north of the border region. A cessation of hostilities between Israel and Lebanon went into effect on November 27, and implementation is ongoing; however, there are continued instances of military activity in some areas of Lebanon. The Lebanese government cannot guarantee the safety of U.S. citizens against sudden outbreaks of violence and armed conflict. Family, neighborhood, or sectarian disputes can escalate quickly and can lead to gunfire or other violence with no warning."

If U.S. citizens travel to Lebanon, they're advised to appoint a family member to serve as their point of contact, keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible, avoid demonstrations and crowds, and monitor local media for breaking events. 

The full list of travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State can be seen here.