The U.S. State Department renewed its global security warning for Americans overseas on Friday, with an added emphasis on potential threats to the LGBTQ community. This alert follows the FBI and Department of Homeland Security's recent public warning that foreign extremist groups or their followers might target events and venues associated with June's Pride month.
The updated travel advice urges Americans to exercise increased caution due to the possibility of attacks by violent extremist groups. The previous alert issued in October did not include specific mentions of heightened threats to the LGBTQ community, making this a significant update.
While U.S. officials have not disclosed specific details regarding the threats, recent developments in certain countries suggest a growing concern. For instance, Iraq's parliament passed a law last month imposing heavy prison sentences on gay and transgender individuals. Similarly, a Ugandan court upheld legislation that allows the death penalty for "aggravated homosexuality" and up to 14 years in prison for "attempted aggravated homosexuality." Both laws have faced strong international criticism, including from the U.S.
The State Department advises U.S. citizens abroad to remain vigilant in tourist areas, including at Pride events, and to monitor the agency’s updates on social media for the latest information.
Pride month, celebrated in June in the U.S. and many parts of the world, aims to honor LGBTQ+ communities and protest against discrimination and violence. The heightened alert underscores the importance of awareness and caution during this period, particularly given the recent rise in anti-LGBTQ legislation and rhetoric globally.
