U.S. Adds Four Nations to Strictest ‘Do Not Travel’ Advisory List, Citing Conflict, Terror, and Unrest

The U.S. Department of State has expanded its highest-level travel advisory, adding four more countries to its Level 4: Do Not Travel list in July alone. The list, which ranks global destinations based on safety risks, now includes 21 countries deemed too dangerous for American travelers.

The four latest additions — Lebanon, Haiti, Libya, and Iraq — were added in a span of just over two weeks, with the department citing reasons such as terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and the U.S. government’s limited ability to assist citizens in those areas.

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🔴 Lebanon (Added July 3)

Travelers are warned to avoid Lebanon entirely due to a volatile mix of crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and the presence of unexploded landmines.

“The threat to U.S. government personnel in Beirut is serious enough that they must live and work under strict security,” the advisory noted, highlighting that consular support may not always be accessible.

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🔴 Haiti (Added July 15)

Under a state of emergency since March 2024, Haiti was next to be added to the list due to rampant crime, kidnapping, terrorism, and a crumbling healthcare system.

The situation in the country has continued to spiral, prompting strong warnings against all travel.

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🔴 Libya (Updated July 16)

The warning for Libya was updated to reflect ongoing armed conflict, terrorism, and the presence of unexploded landmines, along with widespread instability.

“Terrorist attacks may occur with little or no warning, targeting public areas like tourist sites, hotels, markets, and government facilities,” the advisory stated.

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🔴 Iraq (Updated July 17)

Though the ordered departure of non-essential U.S. personnel has been lifted, the country remains on the Level 4 list due to terrorism, armed conflict, and civil unrest.

“Do not travel to Iraq for any reason,” the State Department emphasized.

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In total, the U.S. has added nine countries to its various travel warning levels since the beginning of July, with four now elevated to the strictest “Do Not Travel” status. The State Department maintains these advisories to help American travelers make informed decisions and avoid life-threatening risks abroad.