US citizens warned of terror risk in Europe during festive season
The US has warned Americans of a ‘heightened risk of terror attacks’ at Christmas markets and other seasonal events in Europe.
The US State Department said it had ‘credible information’ that Middle East-based terror groups were planning attacks and focusing on the ‘upcoming holiday season’.
It specifically warned American holidaymakers to exercise caution at "festivals, events and outdoor markets’.
The warning did not name any specific destinations as being particularly at risk, but it referred to recent terror attacks in Belgium, France, Germany and Turkey.
It said: "The Department of State alerts US citizens to the heightened risk of terrorist attacks throughout Europe, particularly during the holiday season. US citizens should exercise caution at holiday festivals, events, and outdoor markets.
"Credible information indicates the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (Isil or Da’esh), al-Qaeda, and their affiliates continue to plan terrorist attacks in Europe, with a focus on the upcoming holiday season and associated events.
"US citizens should also be alert to the possibility that extremist sympathisers or self-radicalised extremists may conduct attacks during this period with little or no warning. Terrorists may employ a wide variety of tactics, using both conventional and non-conventional weapons and targeting both official and private interests."
The warning comes a years after a terror attack in Paris, in which 130 people were killed. It led to the cancellation of several Christmas markets in Europe last year.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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