The US State Department has issued a worldwide caution alert in response to concerns of potential terrorist threats targeting LGBTQ+ individuals and events during Pride Month in June.
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US officials have warned of risks of foreign terrorist organizations targeting LGBTQ+ events around the world.
This alert urges US citizens abroad to exercise increased caution in areas frequented by tourists and during Pride celebrations.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have echoed these concerns, highlighting the potential for exploitation of increased gatherings associated with Pride Month by foreign terrorist organizations or their supporters.
The warnings reference past instances where individuals inspired by Islamic State (IS) ideology targeted LGBTQ+ venues and events.
In June 2016, the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando resulted in the deaths of 49 people and wounded 53 others. The perpetrator pledged allegiance to IS during the attack.
The alert also cites incidents in Europe including the arrest of three IS sympathizers in Vienna, Austria, in 2023. These individuals were allegedly planning to attack a Pride parade using knives and a vehicle.
The Counter Extremism Project has addressed the convergence of anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments among both Islamist and far-right extremist groups.
Mark D. Wallace, CEO of the project, addressed the shared anti-gay visions between neo-Nazis and jihadis.
Homegrown US groups have also posed threats to LGBTQ+ communities with incidents of violence, harassment, and vandalism on the rise.
Reports from organizations like the Anti-Defamation League and Glaad document at least 145 such incidents during Pride Month in 2023.
While the alerts underline the potential for violence, they do not provide specific details about targeted gatherings or locations. They caution against complacency and urge vigilance among US citizens abroad.
The State Department advises Americans traveling abroad to stay informed through programs like the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.
Travelers are urged to exercise caution in areas frequented by tourists including Pride celebrations and venues popular among LGBTQ+ individuals.
The security alert addresses the general potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests. A similar advisory was previously issued in October following the Israel-Hamas war.
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Travelers are advised to exercise increased caution in locations frequented by tourists, including Pride celebrations and venues frequented by LGBTQI+ persons.
The State Department recommends signing up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates and assistance in emergencies.
A spokesperson addresses the State Department’s commitment to the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas. Clear, timely, and reliable information is provided to enable informed travel decisions.
Intelligence sources cite threats by ISIS against Pride events in parts of Europe. Concerns are raised about targeting of LGBTQIA+-related events and venues during June’s Pride Month.
There’s concern about a domestic threat from ISIS evidenced by their successful external operations in Iran, Russia, and Turkey since January 2024.
ISIS has called for attacks against the West and vowed revenge on enemies including the LGBTQIA+ community.
The Joint Counterterrorism Assessment Team advises greater engagement between the LGBTQIA+ community and public safety officials.
Recent incidents including a user of a well-known U.S. video game company pledging allegiance to Hamas and ISIS.
Collaboration between partners is ongoing to evaluate the threat environment and provide updates to the American public. The public is urged to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity to local law enforcement.
Last year’s Pride Month was marked by safety concerns following reports of increased threats of violence against the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hate incidents and anti-LGBTQ+ legislation have led to a “state of emergency” declared by LGBTQ advocacy groups in the U.S.
The issuance of alerts and travel advisories is a routine practice by the State Department to inform and protect US citizens abroad.
These advisories range from general precautionary measures to specific warnings based on geopolitical developments and security threats.
Apart from concerns related to LGBTQ+ safety, the State Department issues alerts for various reasons, including conflicts, ethnic or religious discrimination, and health or crime concerns.
Advisories have highlighted countries like Russia, Syria, and Ukraine due to deadly conflicts, as well as others like Iran, Somalia, and Sudan.
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