The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens to avoid traveling to southeastern Turkey.  “Given the recent terrorist attacks and increased threats from international and indigenous groups, U.S. citizens should exercise caution when traveling throughout the country,” the Department of State said in a new

“Recent terrorist attacks from international and indigenous groups have targeted popular tourist sites, U.S. government buildings, police, and other local authorities throughout Turkey.  The threat of kidnapping remains a concern, especially in the southeast.  There have been incidents of cross-border shelling from Syria into Turkey,” the statement reads.

Therefore, the U.S. citizens are advised to avoid travel to southeastern Turkey, particularly near the Syrian border, stay away from large crowds, including at popular tourist destinations, exercise heightened vigilance and caution when visiting public access areas, especially those heavily frequented by tourists, stay away from political gatherings and rallies and follow the instructions of local authorities in an emergency.