U.S. Embassy Ankara advises U.S. citizens that effective immediately, all official U.S. government employees and their dependents are directed to avoid any political demonstrations, rallies and large gatherings throughout Turkey until further notice. Terrorist attacks, such as the suicide bombings on October 10 in a central Ankara public plaza that killed approximately 100 people and injured upwards of 200, can occur without warning.
U.S. citizens should avoid the site of the October 10 suicide bombing, near the Ankara Train Station in Ulus. Crowds and traffic congestion are expected all day Saturday, October 17.
U.S. citizens in Turkey are reminded of the importance of maintaining security vigilance. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations. Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates.
For further detailed information regarding Turkey and travel:
- See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Turkey’s Country Specific Information.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul, located at 2 Uçsehitler Sokagi, 34460, Istinye, Sariyer, at +90-212-335-9000.
- Contact the U.S. Consulate in Adana, located at 212 Girne Bulvari, Guzelevler Mahallesi, Yuregir, Adana at +90-322-455-4100.
- Contact the Consular Agency in Izmir at Izmir@state.gov.
- Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
- Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
