The use of suicide bomb attacks, particularly vehicle-borne attacks, has emerged as a terrorist tactic in Algeria, including in the capital, Algiers. One group has pledged more attacks against foreign targets, and specifically against American targets.
The potential for a spontaneous upsurge in violence is real. Access to borders and ports can be interrupted, and public demonstrations can occur with little or no warning. Landmines and unexploded ordnance continually pose significant dangers....
American citizens may be subject to harassment or arrest while traveling or residing in Iran. Iranian authorities have detained or imprisoned Iranian-American citizens on various charges, including espionage and posing a threat to national security....
Violent and sometimes fatal criminal attacks, including armed carjackings, home invasions, and kidnappings can occur at any time and in any location, particularly in Nairobi. As recently as February 2010, U.S. nationals were victims of carjackings....
Murder rates have risen significantly in some major cities, particularly Medellin and Cali. Kidnapping remains a serious threat. Small towns and rural areas of Colombia can still be extremely dangerous due to the presence of narco-terrorists....
Detainees may be held for extended periods without being told the purpose of their incarceration. Conditions are harsh -- those incarcerated may be held in very small quarters without access to restrooms, bedding, food or clean water....
Armed rebel groups, bandits, and poachers present real dangers. The capitol, Bangui, suffers from elevated crime rates, petty and violent, as well as particularly limited transport and medical options....
Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula has publicly made threats against Westerners working in embassies and elsewhere. Also, travel by boat through the Red Sea or near the Socotra Islands in the Gulf of Aden presents the risk of pirate attacks....
Violence and threats against U.S. citizens persist. Methods of attack have included roadside improvised explosive devices (IEDs), mortars and rockets, human- and vehicle-borne IEDs, and shootings. Kidnappings still occur....
There is an ongoing security threat due to the continued presence of terrorist groups, some affiliated with al Qaida, who may target Western interests, housing compounds, hotels, shopping areas and other facilities where Westerners congregate....
