New 'Do Not Travel' Alert Issued by U.S. on July 3

Global Travel Warning Puts Americans on High Alert

The summer of 2025 has brought unprecedented travel concerns as the U.S. Department of State maintains heightened security advisories worldwide.

For the first time this July, the U.S. Department of State has issued its first "Do Not Travel" warning.

It didn't take long for the U.S. Department of State to issue a Level 4 travel advisory in July.

The timing couldn't be more critical as millions of Americans prepare for Independence Day weekend travel. Several recent high-profile attacks have prompted the alert heading into July 4, 2025.

This development marks a significant escalation in travel security concerns, with federal agencies working around the clock to assess emerging threats.

The Four-Level Advisory System Explained

The federal agency issues a travel advisory, with levels ranging from "Exercise Normal Precautions" to "Do Not Travel," for every country. Level 3 suggests Americans reconsider traveling to that country due to "serious risks to safety and security," and Level 4 advises everyone against traveling to that location.

Understanding these levels has become crucial for American travelers navigating an increasingly complex global security landscape. 4 - Do not travel This is the highest advisory level due to life-threatening risks. The U.S.

government may have very limited or no ability to help, including during an emergency. We advise that U.S.

citizens do not travel to the country, or to leave as soon as it is safe to do so.

Current List of Level 4 Countries Reaches 21

The U.S. has issued "Do Not Travel" advisories for 21 countries in 2025 due to rising risks of terrorism, conflict, and unlawful detention.

This represents a significant increase from previous years, reflecting the deteriorating security situation globally. Countries that have been placed at the highest risk level so far this year by the State Department, meaning Americans are strongly advised not to go to those destinations, include Afghanistan, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Syria, South Sudan, Iran, Yemen, Burkina Faso, North Korea, Russia, Burma (Myanmar), Venezuela and Somalia.

Worldwide Caution Issued Amid Israel-Iran Tensions

RARE ADVISORY: Effective June 22, the U.S. Department of State has issued a rare global travel warning amid the Israel-Iran conflict and rising global tensions.

This unprecedented worldwide caution affects all international travel, not just specific destinations. The conflict between Israel and Iran has resulted in disruptions to travel and periodic closure of airspace across the Middle East.

There is the potential for demonstrations against U.S. citizens and interests abroad.

The ripple effects of regional conflicts are now impacting global travel patterns.

FBI and DHS Issue 'Lone Wolf' Warnings

Heading into July 4, the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security have also issued "lone wolf" warnings, telling people to be alert if they do decide to travel during the holiday weekend. The FBI, DHS and other law enforcement agencies issued a joint statement stating that "the most significant terrorism threat facing the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks stems from lone offenders and small groups of individuals seeking to commit acts of violence." The threat is not just limited to New York City, though.

Any special event with a large attendance could be targeted. This broad warning has prompted increased security measures at major events across the country.

Travel Ban Expansions Target Additional Nations

Presidential Proclamation 10949 of June 4, 2025: Restricting The Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats establishes a "full" travel ban on 12 countries and a "partial" travel ban on 7 countries, effective 12:01 am eastern daylight time on June 9, 2025. On June 14, 2025 news outlets began reporting that an internal Department of State memo indicates that 36 more countries will be given 60 days to meet the Trump administration's benchmarks and requirements or face either a partial or full entry ban.

These developments suggest further restrictions may be implemented in the coming months.

Recent Advisory Updates and Changes

On June 24, the State Department told Americans not to travel to Lebanon, issuing the country a Level 4 travel advisory, due to "crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and the risk of armed conflict." This is the highest level of warning given by the State Department, and it also called for the "departure of family members and non-emergency U.S. government personnel" from the country.

The State Department says it reviews Level 1 and 2 travel advisories at least every 12 months and Level 3 and 4 advisories at least every six months. "A Travel Advisory will also be updated anytime there is a change in U.S.

government posture, normally as it relates to ongoing security concerns," the department says.

Health-Related Travel Concerns

There are outbreaks of chikungunya in Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mayotte, Réunion, Somalia, and Sri Lanka. Mosquitoes spread the virus that causes chikungunya.

Health considerations continue to factor into travel advisory decisions alongside security concerns. Dengue is a year-round risk in many parts of the world, with outbreaks commonly occurring every 2–5 years.

Travelers to risk areas should prevent mosquito bites. These health alerts complement security advisories to provide comprehensive travel guidance.

Preparation Steps for Safe Travel

Check Official Travel Advisories: Always check the most recent advice on the State Department's travel advisory page right before booking and leading up to your trip. Conditions can change quickly, and even previously safe countries can be moved to Level 4 without warning.

The State Department advised travelers to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency, as well as a number of other measures.

This free service provides real-time updates and emergency assistance coordination.

Conclusion

The escalating global security situation has transformed how Americans approach international travel in 2025. With 21 countries now under Level 4 advisories and a rare worldwide caution in effect, travelers must stay informed about rapidly changing conditions.

The combination of regional conflicts, terrorism threats, and health concerns creates an unprecedented challenge for travel planning. As we approach the Independence Day holiday, heightened vigilance at home and abroad remains essential for personal safety and national security.

How prepared are you for the new reality of international travel security?

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