State Dept. Warns Islamic State, Al-Qaeda Terrorists Seek To Attack US Citizens Abroad

WASHINGTON (Pakistan Point News / Sputnik - 16th January, 2019) US citizens should exercise caution when traveling abroad because terrorist groups like al-Qaeda and the Islamic State (both banned in Russia) aim to attack American visitors, the Department of State said in its latest Worldwide Caution advisory.

"Terrorist groups including ISIS, al-Qa'ida, their associates, and those inspired by such organizations, are intent on attacking US citizens wherever they are," the advisory said on Tuesday.

It added that in multiple regions around the world terrorists, guerrilla groups, and other criminals look to kidnap US citizens for extortion or political purposes.

The United State remains concerned terrorists may continue to seek to carry out attacks on airplanes using concealed explosives or by hijacking commercial flights, the State Department said.

The report points out that terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated weapons, including pistols and vehicles, against crowds of people.

Extremists aim to attack soft targets such as high-profile public events, hotels, places of worship, schools, tourist sites, markets, airports, clubs and restaurants, the advisory noted.