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10 February 1998

TEXT: US CAUTIONS AMERICANS TRAVELING IN MIDEAST, SOUTH ASIA, EUROPE

(Americans should be ready for a possible emergency) (510)
Washington -- In light of the current tensions with Iraq, the
Department of State has cautioned American citizens traveling in the
Middle East and South Asia, and European countries in close proximity,
to heed the standing preparedness advice for American citizens living
abroad.
"Given the potential seriousness of the current situation, we believe
it is important for all citizens to maintain a high state of readiness
for a possible emergency," the State Department said in an
announcement issued February 10.
Following is the text of the announcement:
(Begin text)
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
MIDDLE EAST and SOUTH ASIA
F~ebruary 10, 1998
In light of the current tensions with Iraq, the Department of State
wishes to inform American citizens traveling in the Middle East and
South Asia, and European countries in close proximity, that, while
diplomatic options have not been exhausted, the government of Iraq
continues to convey strongly and publicly its unwillingness to comply
with U.N. resolutions.
We are monitoring the situation with Iraq closely. Although we see no
direct threat to the safety of American citizens in the region at this
time, we believe it prudent for Americans to heed the standing
preparedness advice for American citizens living abroad. Specifically,
you should:
-- assemble all vital documents such as passports, birth and marriage
records, vaccination, insurance and bank records in one readily
accessible location;
-- check to be sure that your passport and any necessary visas are
valid and that you are registered at the embassy with your current
address and phone number;
--~ make or update a complete inventory of your household effects, in
duplicate;
-- maintain an adequate supply of food and water in your home. Make
sure your car is in good working order. Keep the gas tank full and
check oil, coolant, tires, and battery.
These are precautionary measures only. However, given the potential
seriousness of the current situation, we believe it is important for
all citizens to maintain a high state of readiness for a possible
emergency. The U.S. Government will update advice to its citizens as
needed.
U.S. citizens planning to travel in the area should consult the
Department of State's Public Announcements, Travel Warnings, Consular
Information Sheets and regional travel brochures, and refer to the
Department's advisories on security awareness overseas. American
citizens residing or traveling abroad are encouraged to contact the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date information on
security conditions.
This Public Announcement supplements the Worldwide Caution Issued
February 5, 1998 and expires May 9, 1998.
Department of State travel Information and publications are available
at Intenet address: http:travel.state.~gov. U.S. travelers may hear
recorded information by calling the Department of State in Washington,
D.C. at 202-647-5225 from their touchtone telephone, or receive
Information by automated telefax by dialing 202647-3000 from their fax
machine.