Spain and Turkey travel warning for Irish tourists as terror threat ‘high’

Holiday goers travelling to sunnier climes have been urged to stay cautious as the Irish government has issued travel warnings for popular holiday hotspots.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said the threat from terrorism in Spain and Turkey is considered to be high. The official website states: “There is a general threat from terrorism in Europe, and the threat in Spain is considered to be high. Since 2015, the Spanish Government’s national anti-terror alert level has remained at level four (high) on a scale of 1 to 5.

“As terrorists could attempt further attacks, and such attacks could include places visited by foreigners, Irish citizens are advised to increase their security awareness and exercise heightened caution. In the event of any security incident, you should follow the instructions of the local police and your tour operator.”

Read more: Tourists in Spain holiday spot could face €750 fine for peeing in the sea

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Additionally, the warning for Turkey reads: “The threat from terrorism in Türkiye remains high, with bomb attacks in major Turkish cities, including Istanbul and Ankara. Although some attacks have targeted security forces, there have also been random attacks in areas frequented by tourists. The situation in the south-east of the country is particularly serious and these areas should be avoided.”

The DFA is strongly advising people against all travel within 10 kilometres of the border between Turkiye and Syria. They also advise against all but essential travel to the provinces of Hatay, Kilis and Sirnak.

They continue: “Terrorist attacks are, by their nature, random and indiscriminate and cannot be predicted in advance. Visitors are advised to exercise a high degree of caution, particularly in public places that are frequented by foreigners.”

In Turkey, tourists have been urged to avoid demonstrations and public gatherings, which can turn confrontational. “The police will take measures such as the use of tear gas to control protesters. Stay away from military sites taking photos of, or near, military or security installations and some public buildings, may be prohibited.”

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