Istanbul
Turkey
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U.S. State Department Advisory
Official safety information for U.S. citizens
Level 2: Exercise Increased CautionExercise Increased CautionUpdated: June 9, 2026
Why This Level
See What Travelers On The Ground Are SayingExercise increased caution due to terrorism, armed conflict, and arbitrary detentions. Do Not Travel within 10km of the Syrian and Iraqi borders. An area of increased risk was recently removed and the advisory summary was updated.
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Key Advice
View Full Advisory on State.gov- Do Not Travel within 10km (6 miles) of Turkey's borders with Syria or Iraq due to terrorism and armed conflict.
- Exercise caution in crowded spaces - terrorists may attack tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, malls, hotels, and restaurants with little or no warning.
- Avoid demonstrations - unapproved protests can lead to arrest, as can criticizing the government, including on social media.
- Americans have faced arbitrary detention and exit bans over alleged terrorist links based on scant evidence.
- Be aware of heightened anti-Western, anti-U.S., and anti-Israel sentiment near the Syria and Iraq border regions.
- Enroll in STEP and develop a communication plan with family or your employer.
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