U.S. Department of State warns Americans against traveling to Turkey

PanARMENIAN.Net - The U.S. Department of State released the following Travel Alert on March 19, 2010:



"The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens to evolving security concerns in Turkey, and reminds them of the continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests. This Travel Alert dated March 19, 2010, expires on April 30, 2010.



U.S. citizens in Turkey should be particularly vigilant in light of the ongoing "Get Out America, This is Our Country" campaign and upcoming significant anniversaries associated with the Revolutionary People's Liberation Party/Front (DHKP/C), a designated terrorist organization. Actions against American and/or Turkish-American cultural and business establishments in Turkey are possible. We remind U.S. citizens to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness. 



In addition, the U.S. Mission in Turkey alerts American citizens about the upcoming Nevruz holiday (Kurdish New Year) occurring on March 21. Previous protests, some of them violent, have occurred in Turkey on this date and could occur again. 



The Department of State encourages U.S. citizens traveling or residing in Turkey to be alert to the potential for demonstrations and to avoid large gatherings. Demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence.  American citizens are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible. Particular caution should be exercised in places known to be frequented by Americans."