2 Countries On U.S. 'Do Not Travel' To List in June

The U.S. Department of State has issue not one, but two Level 4 travel advisories in the month of June. 

Travel advisories range anywhere from Level 1 to Level 4. If the Department of State places a Level 4 advisory on a country, that means there are life-threatening risks at play for U.S. Citizens. 

With that said, the Department of State has warned Americans to steer clear of Iraq due to heightened regional tensions. 

"U.S. citizens in Iraq face high risks, including violence and kidnapping. Terrorist and insurgent groups regularly attack Iraqi security forces and civilians. Anti-U.S. militias threaten U.S. citizens and international companies. Attacks using improvised explosive devices, indirect fire, and unmanned aerial vehicles occur in many areas, including major cities. The Department of State requires U.S. government personnel in Iraq to live and work under strict security due to serious threats," the travel advisory for Iraq stated. "There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Iraq. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more."

If U.S. citizens travel to Iraq despite this warning, they're advised to do the following: 

• Establish a personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization. 
• Have departure plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, etc.

On June 24, the Department of State issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Lebanon. 

"Do Not Travel to Lebanon due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and the risk of armed conflict. Some areas, especially near the borders, have increased risk," the Department of State said. "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." 

If there are any Americans in Lebanon at the moment, they're being told to avoid any public demonstrations and exercise caution if they're part of a large gathering.