Be Aware of Heightened International Travel Security Concerns

Following the airstrike that killed Iranian Major General Qassem Suleimani and several prominent Iraqi Shi'a militia leaders, countries in the region will likely put additional security measures in place. At this time, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait have placed their militaries on high alert due to the concern of retaliatory attacks by Iran or its proxies.

Outside of the region, U.S. allies or countries with a visible U.S. military presence will likely increase their terror threat level following Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s vow to deliver a swift response to the perpetrators of the attack. The increase in the terror threat level will be seen with increased security at transportation centers, and an increased security presence in major cities. Germany, France, Nigeria, and Pakistan have all increased their terror threat level in response.

What should travelers expect?

• Heightened security at airports.
• Increased security in the areas around U.S. and NATO military bases as well as U.S. and Israeli embassies.
• Possible travel disruptions and delays.

Key reminders for travelers

• Maintain heightened awareness of your surroundings.
• Allow extra time for any business at U.S. or Israeli embassies.
• Ensure that trips are registered, both with UC Davis, which is required per UC Davis policy,and with the U.S. State Department’s STEP program. These actions will ensure access to customized, real-time travel updates and alerts.
• Avoid all protests or rallies. 
• Check flight status before departing for airports.
• Maintain awareness of local news and any U.S. State Department warnings.

More Information

For additional questions or for country specific travel advice please contact A.J. Leeds, UC Davis Traveler Security Manager, at travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu or 530-752-4129.

For more updates, resources, and tips, visit the Travel Security webpages on the Global Affairs website.