Euro 2016 Soccer Championship In France May Face Terror Attacks: US Warning
The US warned Tuesday that the Euro 2016 soccer championship that will be held in France from June 10 through July 10 may be targeted by violent terror attacks.
While it is expected that one million fans from all over the world will attend the month-long event, the U.S. State Department warns of the risk of a potential attack on the event.
"Euro Cup stadiums, fan zones, and unaffiliated entertainment venues broadcasting the tournaments in France and across Europe represent potential targets for terrorists, as do other large-scale sporting events and public gathering places throughout Europe," the State Department said in a travel alert posted on its website. "France has extended its state of emergency through July 26 to cover the period of the soccer championship, as well as the Tour de France cycling race which will be held from July 2-24."
After last March's Islamist attacks in Paris, the city is in a state of alert.
Security details will be included in the Catholic Church's World Youth day, expected to draw as many as 2.5 million people to Krakow, Poland from July 26 to July 31.
"U.S. citizens should be aware that local infrastructure may be strained due to a large number of visitors," the State Department said. "Poland will impose border controls at all of its national borders from July 4 to August 2, and visitors to Poland during this period should be prepared to show their passport and undergo stricter security screening throughout Poland. More information to help prepare for travel to World Youth Day can be found at the embassy ."
US citizens have been asked by the State Department to be vigilant public places, or use mass transportation; keep themselves on high alert of their immediate surroundings, avoiding crowded places; follow instructions of local authorities, especially in emergency situations; monitor media and other information sources, keep themselves abreast of the latest information in travel plans and activities; get prepared for additional security screening and other interruptions; keep in touch with family members; keep plans to stay in touch in case of separation.
