The U.S. State Department on Friday issued a “global alert” alert, urging U.S. citizens abroad to be more vigilant due to concerns about the potential for terrorist-inspired violence against LGBTQI+ people and events. The alert comes two weeks before the start of Pride Month in June, which is known for parades and events celebrating the LGBTQI+ community.
The State Department advised citizens traveling abroad to remain cautious and vigilant in tourist areas, especially when participating in Pride celebrations or other locations commonly visited by the LGBTQI+ community.
Additionally, citizens traveling abroad were required to register with the Smart Travel Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive information and alerts from the U.S. embassy about the safety situation in their destination country. This program helps embassies reach U.S. citizens during emergencies, such as natural disasters or social respite, and connect them with family and friends of U.S. citizens.
The alert coincided with Secretary of State Anthony Blinken's commemoration of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia, and Transphobia. Blinken wrote in X that the United States is committed to promoting the safety and dignity of LGBTQ+ people as part of advancing our national interests.
Earlier this month, the FBI and Department of Homeland Security issued similar statements warning that large LGBTQIA+ gatherings could be targeted and exploited by foreign terrorist organizations. The statement comes after ISIS has targeted the LGBTQIA+ community in the past, including the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando that left 49 people dead, and the repeated publication of messages from ISIS to its followers to attack LGBTQI+ venues and events. The attempt attracted attention.
