Warnings Issued on Risk of Anti-U.S. Violence After Osama bin Laden’s Death Announced
The State Department has issued a May 1, 2011 travel alert which alerts U.S. citizens traveling and residing abroad to the enhanced potential for anti-American violence given recent counter-terrorism activity in Pakistan.
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President, DHS Secretary, Secretary of State Say U.S. Will Remain Vigilant, Etc.
On May 1, 2011, President Obama announced that the U.S. conducted an operation that killed Osama bin Laden, the leader of al Qaeda. In his remarks, the President noted that there is no doubt that al Qaeda will continue to pursue attacks against the U.S. and the U.S. must remain vigilant at home and abroad.
In addition, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Napolitano issued a statement on bin Laden’s death, stating that the U.S. remains at a heightened state of vigilance, but DHS does not intend to issue a National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) alert at this time. Napolitano stated that DHS will only issue alerts when it has specific or credible information to convey to the public; however, its security posture will continue to respond appropriately to protect the U.S. from an evolving threat picture in the coming days and beyond.
Secretary of State Clinton also delivered remarks on the killing of bin Laden, and addressed what his death means for U.S. anti-terrorism efforts moving forward.
U.S. Citizens in Certain Areas Urged to Limit Travel, Avoid Mass Gatherings
According to the State Department’s travel alert, given the uncertainty and volatility of the current situation, U.S. citizens in areas where recent events could cause anti-American violence are strongly urged to limit their travel outside of their homes and hotels and avoid mass gatherings and demonstrations. U.S. citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times. This Travel Alert expires August 1, 2011.
U.S. Government Facilities Worldwide Remain at Heightened State of Alert
U.S. Embassy operations in affected areas will continue to the extent possible under the constraints of any evolving security situation. U.S. government facilities worldwide remain at a heightened state of alert. These facilities may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture. In those instances, U.S. Embassies and Consulates will make every effort to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens abroad are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.