U.S. Consulate General Press Releases (1998)

Worldwide Caution - Iraq (12/16/1998)

News Release
December 17, 1998
Thursday

The United States Department of State issued on December 16, 1998 a worldwide caution for American citizens, the text of which follows:

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In light of the military operations against Iraq and the potential for retaliatory action, the Department of State urges U.S. citizens traveling or residing abroad to review their security practices, to remain alert to the changing situation, and to exercise much greater caution than usual. While the U.S. Government has no specific information about threats to American citizens at this time, the potential for retaliatory acts against U.S. citizens exists.

American citizens traveling or residing abroad are reminded to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate measures to protect their personal security. In addition, American citizens should maintain a low profile, vary routes and times for all travel, and treat mail from unfamiliar sources with suspicion.

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. Current information on operations of U.S. embassies and consulates is also available on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov. In addition, U.S. citizens planning to travel abroad should consult the Department of State Public Announcements, Travel Warnings, Consular Information Sheets, and regional brochures.

This Public Announcement supplements the November 12, 1998 Worldwide Caution Public Announcement and the November 3 Public Announcement on Iraq and expires on March 15, 1999.

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Department of State travel information and publications are available at Internet address: http://travel.state.gov. U.S. travelers may hear recorded information by calling the Department of State in Washington, D.C. at 202-647-5225 from their touchtone telephone, or receive information by automated telefax by dialing 202-647-3000 from their fax machine.

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