Argentina Joins US, South Korea, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Australia, Japan And More Amid Escalating Security Concerns As Canada Issues New Travel Alert

Saturday, June 14, 2025

Amid a wave of rising geopolitical tensions, civil unrest, and regional instability, Canada has issued a new global travel alert, adding Argentina to a growing list of countries including the United States, South Korea, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Australia, Japan, and more. The advisory reflects heightened security measures in Argentina targeting Jewish institutions, escalating protests in U.S. cities like Los Angeles, increasing military tension on the Korean Peninsula, and travel disruption risks across parts of the Middle East. Each country flagged in the alert carries unique safety considerations—from demonstrations and curfews to petty crime and airspace concerns—prompting Canadian authorities to caution travelers to stay vigilant, follow local guidance, and register their travel plans for real-time updates.

Canada has updated its global travel advisories, issuing new safety guidance for travelers visiting key international destinations. As of mid-June 2025, Argentina has joined the United States, South Korea, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Australia, Japan, and other countries listed in Canada’s latest alert. The travel guidance outlines both routine precautions and special notices linked to regional unrest, civil demonstrations, and potential geopolitical flashpoints.

While none of the countries included in the alert face “avoid travel” designations, Canada’s government urges tourists to remain aware, follow local rules, and watch for rapid changes. The updated notices reflect the evolving landscape of global travel, where political unrest and public safety concerns can shift with little warning.

Argentina Tightens Security Around Jewish Institutions

Argentina remains a country where travelers can follow normal safety precautions. However, the government has responded to ongoing instability in the Middle East by strengthening security around Jewish sites across the country. These include synagogues, Jewish schools, community centers, and the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA).

Authorities have increased police presence and surveillance around these institutions, particularly in Buenos Aires. The enhanced measures aim to deter any potential spillover from global tensions, not to address a domestic threat. Tourists visiting neighborhoods with large Jewish populations may notice visible security forces, but everyday activities remain unaffected for most travelers.

United States Faces Civil Unrest and Curfews

The United States also appears on Canada’s updated alert, with specific warnings for visitors to Los Angeles and other large cities. Since June 6, 2025, widespread demonstrations have taken over parts of downtown Los Angeles. In response, local officials implemented a nighttime curfew running from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. and increased law enforcement in protest-prone areas.

Canadian travelers are advised to stay clear of protest zones, avoid confrontation, and follow instructions from local authorities. The advisory emphasizes that protests can shift rapidly in tone and location, often disrupting traffic and public transportation with little notice. Curfews may expand or move depending on unfolding events.

South Korea Monitors Rising Tensions on the Peninsula

South Korea continues to welcome foreign visitors under normal safety precautions. Still, travelers should understand the unpredictable nature of the Korean Peninsula’s security environment. Canada’s alert highlights the potential for rising tensions between South Korea and North Korea — particularly during military drills or after missile launches.

Incidents at or near the inter-Korean border can escalate quickly. Travelers should monitor breaking news and local updates closely. Canadian authorities strongly recommend that visitors register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad program to receive urgent updates and travel instructions in real time.

Puerto Rico Flags Crime and Demonstration Risks

Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, remains safe under routine travel guidance but carries specific risks. Petty crime remains the most frequent concern, with tourists reporting incidents of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft of unsecured valuables. These crimes typically occur in high-traffic areas like tourist districts, beaches, and public transportation.

The alert also cautions against participating in public protests, even those that appear peaceful. Demonstrations in Puerto Rico sometimes lead to police intervention and unexpected disruptions. Travelers should avoid protest locations and monitor local news for updates on public events and possible unrest.

Qatar Stays Stable Amid Regional Volatility

Qatar currently poses no direct risk to tourists, but its position in a tense Middle East region places it on Canada’s alert list. Rising instability in nearby countries could cause sudden airspace closures, cancelled flights, or heightened security at airports and hotels. While life in Doha and other cities remains calm, travelers should take a cautious, flexible approach.

Canadian officials urge visitors to monitor both regional and international developments. The alert recommends adjusting plans quickly if flight routes or local safety protocols change due to developments beyond Qatar’s control. Travelers should also follow local security guidance without hesitation.

Australia Urges Caution Around Property Crimes

Australia remains one of the safest destinations globally, but it does see occasional spikes in petty crime, particularly in urban tourist centers. Visitors may face risks such as pickpocketing, vehicle break-ins, and luggage theft in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

The alert singles out lower-cost hotels and hostels, where theft from in-room safes has been reported. Tourists should lock up valuable belongings, avoid leaving electronics or cash in plain sight, and remain alert in crowded public spaces. Despite these issues, violent crime remains rare, and local police respond promptly to incidents.

Japan Maintains Safety but Monitors External Threats

Japan continues to provide a safe and orderly experience for international tourists. Still, the Canadian government flags two concerns. First, travelers must avoid restricted areas near the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, where radiation exposure risks remain high from the 2011 incident. Japanese authorities clearly mark and enforce these zones.

Second, regional instability caused by North Korean activity could affect Japan without warning. Missile tests or regional military tensions could prompt temporary public alerts or civil protection instructions. Tourists should stay tuned to official announcements and be ready to follow emergency procedures if required.

What Canadian Travelers Should Do

Canada’s updated travel alert highlights the importance of staying aware, registering travel plans, and keeping informed through local and embassy sources. Although all listed countries remain open to tourism, travelers must prepare for rapidly changing circumstances. Whether dealing with protest zones in Los Angeles, military flashpoints in Asia, or regional instability in the Middle East, vigilance is key.

All travelers are encouraged to:

Register their trip through the Registration of Canadians Abroad portalAvoid demonstrations and large public gatheringsFollow the instructions of local law enforcement and curfewsSecure personal belongings at all timesStay informed via local news and embassy updates

Canada has issued a new global travel alert in response to escalating security concerns worldwide, adding Argentina to a growing list that includes the US, South Korea, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Australia, Japan and more due to rising tensions, protests, and regional instability affecting travelers.

As summer travel peaks, Canadians heading abroad will benefit most by remaining flexible, cautious, and well-informed. Argentina’s new security response, combined with alerts in countries like the US, South Korea, Qatar, and Japan, reflects a world in flux — where travel remains possible, but smart preparation makes all the difference.