US travel alert urges vigilance in wake of Sydney siege

The US State Department called on Americans abroad Monday to be extra vigilant against “unpredictable” terror attacks during the holiday period in the wake of the recent “lone wolf” hostage crisis in Sydney, Australia.

A statement published by embassies and consulates around the globe said the Sydney attack, in which two hostages were killed after a 16-hour standoff, was a reminder for US citizens to “be extra cautious, maintain a very high level of vigilance, and take appropriate steps to enhance their personal security.”

“An analysis of past attacks and threat reporting strongly suggests a focus by terrorists not only on the targeting of US government facilities but also on hotels, shopping areas, places of worship, and schools, among other targets, during or coinciding with this holiday period,” the statement said.

“US citizens abroad should be mindful that terrorists groups and those inspired by them can pose unpredictable threats in public venues.”

The State Department characterized the warning as a “wordlwide travel alert.”

Last week Man Haron Monis, a self-styled Iranian cleric, took 20 people hostage at Lindt chocolate cafe in Sydney, Australia. Two hostages and Monis were killed when the 16-hour siege ended in a shootout as security forces stormed the building.

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott on Tuesday warned of a heightened level of “terrorist chatter” in the aftermath of the fatal siege.