State Department issues security message on possible attacks

The U.S. Consulate in Adana, Turkey, issued a security message Monday, warning U.S. citizens of “specific and credible threats” of possible terrorist attacks.

Key points:

• The State Department specifically warned U.S. citizens in Adana, a city in southern Turkey, to exercise extra caution if staying at or visiting U.S.-branded hotels, which the department said could be targeted in an attack.
• Companies should notify employees in the area of the security risk. The consulate’s full statement is available on this.

Background: The consulate issued the security message Monday as the State Department continues to warn travelers of increased security threats across Turkey. The State Department has advised against travel in southeastern Turkey, near the Syrian border. U.S. officials are also monitoring the effects of a state of emergency that was declared after a failed coup in July and of terrorist attacks in Ankara, Gaziantep and Istanbul.

BAL Analysis: Foreign nationals residing in or visiting Turkey should exercise caution, especially in areas where officials believe extremist groups are interested in launching attacks. Employers may wish to encourage their employees to enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, a free service that provides updated security information and allows Americans to register their trips abroad with the closest U.S. embassy or consulate.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact BerryApplemanLeiden@bal.com.

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