Published on
September 25, 2025
The US Department of State has issued an urgent Level 4 travel advisory, warning American travelers against visiting Russia, North Korea, Haiti, Libya, Lebanon, Iran, Belarus, and other high-risk nations. This top-level alert comes in response to a combination of life-threatening risks, including ongoing armed conflicts, terrorism, widespread civil unrest, political instability, rampant crime, and deteriorating health and safety conditions. In these countries, travelers may face limited access to medical care, arbitrary detention, and minimal assistance from US authorities during emergencies. The advisory underscores the escalating dangers in these regions, urging citizens to reconsider or postpone non-essential travel and to take all necessary precautions if travel is unavoidable.
Level 4 advisories are issued to ensure that travelers are fully aware of the risks they may encounter. In such locations, emergency assistance from US consular services may be unavailable or extremely limited. Travelers are advised to avoid non-essential travel to these destinations and, if already present, to consider leaving as soon as it is safe. These warnings are based on careful assessments of political instability, security threats, health concerns, and the ability of the US government to respond in emergencies.
As of September 2025, several countries and regions have been designated under the Level 4 advisory due to a combination of armed conflict, terrorism, civil unrest, and other security challenges. Key examples include:
Afghanistan: The country remains in the grip of ongoing armed conflict and terrorist activity, making travel extremely hazardous. US consular support is very limited, and major cities experience frequent security incidents.Belarus: Travelers face heightened risks due to civil unrest, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, and limited access to emergency assistance.Burkina Faso: Recurrent terrorist attacks, kidnappings, and violent crime pose significant dangers for visitors.Myanmar: Post-coup political unrest, civil unrest, and limited healthcare infrastructure make the country a high-risk destination.Central African Republic: Widespread violence and ongoing armed conflict create persistent security challenges.Haiti: Political instability, violent crime, and an under-resourced healthcare system have contributed to extreme travel risks.Iran: Travelers may face threats from terrorism, political tensions, and arbitrary detention, particularly of foreign nationals.Iraq: The presence of armed groups, terrorist organizations, and ongoing conflicts make Iraq a particularly dangerous destination.Lebanon: Political instability, internal security threats, and the presence of armed factions increase risks for travelers.Libya: Civil unrest, ongoing armed conflicts, and the presence of terrorist organizations make travel highly unsafe.Mali: Terrorist activity, violent crime, and widespread civil unrest have led to the advisory.North Korea: The country imposes strict control on visitors, and travelers may face arbitrary detention. US support is extremely limited.Russia: Due to ongoing conflict in Ukraine, unpredictable law enforcement, and restricted consular services, travel to Russia is strongly discouraged.Somalia: Persistent terrorism, piracy, and internal conflict make travel highly risky.South Sudan: Widespread violence and civil unrest continue to threaten safety throughout the country.Sudan: Political instability, armed conflict, and social unrest create serious hazards for visitors.Syria: Civil war, terrorism, and limited healthcare facilities make Syria extremely dangerous for travel.Ukraine: The ongoing conflict with Russia and the risk of military attacks contribute to elevated travel risks.Venezuela: Political turmoil, high crime rates, and a deteriorating healthcare system increase dangers for travelers.Yemen: Ongoing armed conflict, terrorism, and risks of kidnapping make Yemen a highly unsafe destination.
Understanding the Risks
Level 4 advisories highlight several critical risks travelers must consider. Limited US Government assistance is a major concern; in emergencies, consular support may be unavailable or minimal. Travelers may also face arbitrary detention in countries with tense diplomatic relations. Health risks are prevalent, particularly in nations with underdeveloped healthcare systems or ongoing disease outbreaks. Civil unrest, political instability, and terrorist activity further compound the dangers for visitors, making it essential to plan and prepare carefully before traveling.
Travel Recommendations
For anyone considering international travel, following official advisories is critical. Non-essential trips to Level 4 countries should be postponed, while travelers who must go should stay updated through official US Department of State channels and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time alerts and support. It is also vital to have contingency plans in place, including evacuation strategies, emergency contacts, and necessary medical precautions.
These advisories are designed to protect travelers by providing guidance for navigating some of the world’s most hazardous regions. Understanding the potential threats—from armed conflict and terrorism to health and safety hazards—allows travelers to make informed decisions and prioritize their personal security. Careful preparation and vigilance can significantly reduce risks, helping American travelers stay safe while abroad.
