The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that there is a possibility of political protests and demonstrations on November 1, particularly in southeast Turkey. Various political and other organizations have called for mass demonstrations on November 1, in support of efforts to defend the Syrian town of Kobane. Recently, similar demonstrations in Turkey have sometimes resulted in violent altercations in Diyarbakır, Gaziantep, Adana, Mersin, and elsewhere. U.S. citizens in Turkey should follow the media for the most current information.
While U.S. citizens have not been the targets of recent demonstrations, even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. Due to the possibility of spontaneous protests, the U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens to avoid demonstrations or mass gatherings, review personal security plans, remain aware of surroundings including local events, and follow the instructions of local authorities.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Turkey enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Specific Information for Turkey. For additional information, refer to the “Traveler’s Checklist” on the State Department’s website.
Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us on Twitter and Facebook to have travel information at your fingertips.
Contact information for the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Turkey:
- The U.S. Embassy in Ankara is located at 110 Ataturk Boulevard, tel: (90)(312) 455-5555, fax (90)(312) 468-6131.
- The U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul is located at 2 Uçsehitler Sokagi, 34460, Istinye, Sariyer, tel: (90) (212) 335-9000, fax (90) (212) 335-9102.
- The U.S. Consulate in Adana is located at 212 Girne Bulvari, Guzelevler Mahallesi, Yuregir, Adana, Turkey. tel: (90)(322) 346-6262, fax (90)(322) 346-7916.
- The Consular Agency in Izmir can be reached at tel: (90) (232) 464-8755, fax (90) (232) 464-8916.
