The US State Department on Monday issued an alert to US citizens who are traveling in European countries, including Belgium, France, Germany and Turkey, about a heightened risk of terrorist attacks, particularly during the holiday season.
Underlining that there was credible information that Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), al Qaeda and affiliates continued to plan attacks in Europe, the State Department statement said that US citizens should exercise caution at holiday festivals, events and outdoor markets.
It also noted that extremists had carried out attacks in Belgium, France, Germany and Turkey in the past year and said it remains concerned about the potential for attacks throughout Europe.