UK government issues list of countries at risk of terrorist attacks during the holidays
The holiday season is in full flow and summer getaways are on most people’s agendas in the coming months.
But tourists have been warned to avoid certain areas unless it’s essential, with the threat of terror attacks in several places in Europe and beyond.
Where is safe to go and where should you avoid travelling to? What precautions should you take while travelling?
Here we take a look at the UK Government’s travel advice for destinations across the globe.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advises against all travel to within 10 km of the border with Syria and to the city of Diyarbakir.
The FCO said: “Fighting in Syria continues in areas close to the Turkish border and there remains a heightened risk of terrorism in the region.”
They warned that presidential and parliamentary elections will take place on 24 June 2018 which “may result in rallies and demonstrations around the country”.
“You should avoid large gatherings and follow the advice of the local authorities,” the advice added.
Added security measures may apply to flights from Turkey to the UK.
Terrorists are “very likely” to try to carry out attacks in Egypt, the FCO says.
People have been told they should always be vigilant and follow advice of Egyptian authorities and travel companies.
Threats to western nationals, institutions and businesses have been posted on websites and social media.
The FCO has advised against travel – unless it’s essential- to the Governorate of South Sinai with the exception of the area within the Sharm el Sheikh perimeter barrier, which includes the airport and the areas of Sharm el Maya, Hadaba, Naama Bay, Sharks Bay and Nabq.
But people have been advised against all but essential travel by air to or from Sharm el Sheikh.
Places to avoid also include the area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, excluding the coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruh.
Barcelona and other areas in the region of Catalonia have seen large gatherings because of the political developments in the region.
And the Government has warned more demonstrations could take place.
“They may occur with little or no warning and even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can escalate and turn confrontational,” the FCO says.
“You should exercise caution if you’re in the vicinity.
“Demonstrations may also cause some disruption and delays to transport services.”
The FCO have also urged people to not take unnecessary risks, especially when under the influence of alcohol after several deaths as a result from people falling from balconies.
They also warned people to be aware of the existence of street crime as thieves tend to target money and passports.
Terrorist attacks in Greece can’t be ruled out, the FCO says.
Brits have been told to apply for a free European Health Insurance Card and to carry their passport or photo ID showing British nationality at all times.
Some medical costs are not covered by the European Health Insurance Card so people have been told to get comprehensive medical and travel insurance before going to Greece.
The FCO says: “Greek police won’t accept rowdy or indecent behaviour, especially where excessive drinking is involved.
“Greek courts impose heavy fines or prison sentences on people who behave indecently.
“Your travel insurance may not cover you after drinking.”
It is “very likely” that terrorists carry out attacks in France, according to the Goverment.
The country has had ongoing threats by Islamist terrorist groups.
The French government has advised the public to be vigilant and has reinforced its security measures.
People should also be aware that a number of strikes are being planned on SNCF trains until June 28 and should check travel advice.
Terror attacks in the USA are “very likely” and could be indiscriminate, the Government has warned.
People should be vigilant and check reports in the press.
The US Department of Homeland Security is to start implementing separate enhanced security screening procedures for all commercial flights to the US.
A state of emergency is in place in Tunisia.
This was put into effect after a suicide attack on a police bus on November 24, 2015.
It’s been extended several times, most recently on March 12, 2018 by seven months.
The FCO has advised against all travel to the Chaambi Mountains National Park and the designated military operations zones of Mount Salloum, Mount Sammamma and Mount Mghila.
They have also advised against travel to the militarised zone south of El Borma and Dhehiba, anywhere within 20km of the rest of the Libya border area north of Dhehiba and Ben Guerdane and its immediate surrounding area.
Advise against all but essential travel has been advised for places south of, and including, the towns of Nefta, Douz, Médenine, Zarzis.
Also, within 30km of the border with Algeria south of and including the town of Jendouba.
People should also not go to Kasserine, including the town of Sbeitla, unless it’s absolutely necessary.
Source: Mirror
