The United States has issued a global travel alert asking its citizens to exercise caution in the wake of a Florida pastor's plan to burn copies of Quran on the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, warning that it could trigger violent protests in many countries.
"The Department of State is issuing this travel alert to caution US citizens of the potential for anti-US demonstrations in many countries in response to stated plans by a church in Florida to burn Qurans on the anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks," the travel alert said.
Demonstrations, some violent, have already taken place in several countries, including Afghanistan and Indonesia, against Florida church's pastor Terry Jones' plans, the travel alert noted.
"The potential for further protests and demonstrations, some of which may turn violent, remains high," it warned, adding, "We urge you to pay attention to local reaction to the situation, and to avoid areas where demonstrations may take place."
The 'travel alert' expires on September 30, the statement said and reminded American nationals of the continuing threat to US interests and citizens posed by various terrorist groups, as outlined in the
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