United States Issues New 'Do Not Travel' Warning

The United States Department of State maintains a vast database of travel advisories spanning hundreds of nations around the world. These alerts serve as a vital resource for travelers, equipping them with the information necessary to stay safe while overseas.

At times, those advisories go as far as urging Americans to avoid certain destinations altogether. That happened again this week, when the United States released an updated “do not travel” warning for a nation in the Middle East that has been historically renowned for its beauty.

Beauty, Adventure, and History in Lebanon

Over the years, Lebanon has emerged as a popular tourist destination for travelers seeking adventure, beauty, and history. In fact, the region has been historically celebrated in the Bible for its natural beauty, specifically its majestic cedar trees and snow-covered peaks for which the country is named.

The nation has an impressive list of landmarks, including natural beauty and historical wonders.

• Jeita Grotto: A stunning network of limestone caves and one of the country’s top natural attractions.
• Baalbek: Home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world, including the Temple of Jupiter.
• Pigeon Rocks: Iconic offshore rock formations located along the coast of Beirut.
• Byblos: One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, rich in Phoenician history.
• Our Lady of Lebanon: A famous hilltop shrine overlooking Jounieh Bay.
• Beiteddine Palace: A 19th-century palace known for its beautiful architecture and cultural festivals.

Additionally, Lebanon is home to the Qadisha Valley, which is an alluring destination for those seeking a glimpse of the country's natural beauty. The UNESCO-listed valley is carved deep into the mountains of northern Lebanon. A hike through the breathtaking valley features dramatic cliffs, ancient monasteries carved into rock faces, and peaceful rivers.

'Do Not Travel' Warning

While Lebanon is undoubtedly a captivating travel destination, the State Department has unfortunately deemed it unsafe for travelers.

The United States categorizes its travel advisories into four different levels, spanning from a normal Level 1 advisory, which urges travelers to take normal precautions while traveling abroad, to the most severe Level 4 warnings, which warn against traveling to that destination altogether.

On Monday, the United States Department of State issued its most severe and serious Level 4 travel warning for Lebanon, warning of crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and the risk of armed conflict.

The latest warning comes after the Department of State ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of government personnel due to the security situation in Beirut, as Lebanon's capital city faces heightened security risks and instability due to Israeli air strikes targeting Hezbollah.

"U.S. citizens in Lebanon should be aware that consular officers from the U.S. Embassy are not always able to travel to assist them. The Department of State considers the threat to U.S. government personnel in Beirut serious enough to require them to live and work under strict security. The internal security policies of the U.S. Embassy may be adjusted at any time and without advance notice," the travel advisory reads.

Additionally, the advisory warns that terrorists might target tourists in the area, and there have been politically motivated killings in the country.

"Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Lebanon. Terrorists may conduct attacks with little or no warning targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities," the advisory reads. "Local security authorities have noted a rise in violent crimes, including political violence. Multiple unsolved killings in Lebanon may have been politically motivated. Kidnapping, whether for ransom, political motives, or family disputes, has occurred in Lebanon. Suspects in kidnappings may have ties to terrorist or criminal organizations."

Additionally, the advisory warns of "explosive remnants of war" that could pose a particular risk to those seeking adventure in the country.

Unexploded landmines and explosive remnants of war are a hazard along the border with Syria. Heed land mine warning signs. Do not venture off the road into areas marked off with red and white plastic tape. Avoid roadside ditches, shoulders, and unmarked trails. Never touch anything resembling unexploded munitions.

While the country is undeniably beautiful and rich in history and adventure, it is simply not safe to visit.