The U.S. State Department has issued a travel alert on Monday, which will be active till Feb. 24, 2016, following terror attack threats from militant organisations such as ISIS, al-Qaeda, Boko Haram and others in different regions. The state department has warned travellers that the attacks can be carried out using conventional and non-conventional weapons and using a variety of tactics and might target both private and official interest.

“Authorities believe the likelihood of terror attacks will continue as members of ISIL/Da’esh return from Syria and Iraq,” the U.S. state department said in a statement. “Additionally, there is a continuing threat from unaffiliated persons planning attacks inspired by major terrorist organisations but conducted on an individual basis.”

The travel alerts come as back to back large scale terror attacks are reported across the world. These include the Paris attacks, which killed at least 129 people, as well as the downing of the Russian passenger jet resulting in the death of all 224 people on board, both of which have been claimed by the Islamic State.

The U.S. State Department mentioned in its alert statement that the extremists have targeted places like open markets, theatres, sporting events and aviation services. Countries including France, Mali, Turkey, Lebanon, Denmark and Nigeria had multiple attacks this year.

‘’U.S. citizens should exercise vigilance when in public places or using transportation,” the statement said. “Be aware of immediate surroundings and avoid large crowds or crowded places. Exercise particular caution during the holiday season and at holiday festivals or events.”

Belgium Prime Minister Charles Michel has issued a terror alert the same day in Brussels and announced that it would be active for at least another week.

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