Warden Messages
09 January 2009
Security Issues regarding Gaza
The U.S. Embassy in London wishes to alert American citizens in the United Kingdom to the continuing possibility of large and disruptive protests against Israeli military intervention in the Gaza strip. There have been several large demonstrations in various cities within the United Kingdom. To date, most of these demonstrations have been peaceful with little or no violence, but they have included some anti-U.S. slogans. The size of these demonstrations has increased over time. As the situation continues to evolve, the possibility of larger demonstrations may increase, as does the potential for violence.
The U. S. Embassy reminds American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. American citizens are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible, and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations or groups of demonstrators in transit. Since the timing and routes of scheduled marches and demonstrations are always subject to change, U.S. citizens should monitor local media sources for new developments. The Department of State reminds U.S. citizens to avoid participating in public demonstrations in the United Kingdom.
Americans should review their personal protective measures, maintain a low profile, and avoid the public display of items, such as articles of clothing that may draw attention to your American nationality.
If you are confronted or find yourself caught up with a group of protestors while using public transportation, avoid contact, depart the area immediately, and seek protection from the nearest public safety officer. As always, dial 999 if you need emergency assistance.
For more detailed information on staying safe in the United Kingdom, please see the United Kingdom Country Specific Information at: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1052.html .
For the latest security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Alerts, and Travel Warnings are posted. American citizens also may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions overseas by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States or Canada, or from overseas on 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).
The U.S. Embassy in London is located at 24 Grosvenor Square, London W1A 1AE; telephone: in country 020-7499-9000, from the United States 011-44-20-7499-9000 (24 hours). Consular Section fax: in country 020-7495-5012, from the United States 011-44-20-7495-5012, and on the web at http://london.usembassy.gov .
U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.
To register your details with the U.S. Embassy in London so that we may be able to contact you in an emergency, please visit https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/
To subscribe to our monthly newsletter for American Citizens, please send an email to londonacsnewsletter@state.gov .
If you feel that you have received this message in error, please let us know.
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