Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens #11

August 11, 2010

Increased Threat Levels Due to PKK Terrorist Anniversary

There is an overall increase in violence and a continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests throughout Turkey.  The August 15 anniversary of the first PKK (also known as the Kongra-Gel (KGK)) attack against Turkish government installations has historically provided an excuse for an escalation of violence.  While the PKK's intentions for the anniversary are unclear, the potential for violence or unrest warrants increased awareness during this period.  The Mersin and Kız Kalesi areas in southeast Turkey have been put off limits for American military personnel from August 13–15.

As discussed in previous Warden Messages, the PKK terrorist group has recently threatened increased violent activity in urban areas in Turkey, and there is credible information that the PKK intends to target tourist areas.  There have also been recent clashes involving security forces and the PKK in parts of Turkey outside of the PKK's usual operating area in southeast Turkey.  

The Department of State advises U.S. citizens traveling or residing in Turkey to be alert to the potential for terrorist-related violence and the possibility of increased PKK activity in urban and tourist areas, as well as throughout southeastern Turkey.  We encourage all U.S. citizens to exercise extreme caution and maintain a low profile throughout Turkey.  We reiterate Department of State advice to take prudent steps to ensure your personal safety: remain vigilant and aware of surroundings, listen to news reports, avoid crowds and demonstrations, and vary times and routes for all travel.  

We encourage U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Turkey through the State Department's travel registration website to obtain updated information on travel and security.  U.S. citizens without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  By registering, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy or nearest Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.  For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad."

For the latest security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's website, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found.  Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).  We also invite U.S. citizens to read the Country Specific Information for Turkey.

U.S. citizens with questions or concerns may contact the American Citizens Services Unit of the Embassy or the Consulates General for further information.

The U.S. Embassy in Ankara is located at 110 Ataturk Boulevard, Kavaklıdere, Ankara.  Telephone: (90) (312) 455-5555, fax (90) (312) 468-6131.

The U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul is located at Üç Şehitler Sokağı No. 2, 34460, Istinye, Sarıyer, Istanbul.  Telephone: (90) (212) 335-9000, fax (90) (212) 335-9102.

The U.S. Consulate in Adana is located at Girne Bulvarı No. 212, Güzelevler Mahallesi, Yüreğir, Adana, Turkey. Telephone: (90) (322) 346-6262, fax (90) (322) 346-7916.

The Consular Agency in Izmir can be contacted at (90) (232) 464-8755.