U.S. citizens are warned of increased threats from terrorist groups in Turkey, the warning issued by State Department says.

“Carefully consider the need to travel to Turkey at this time, and avoid travel to southeast Turkey due to the persistent threat of terrorism,” says the message.

The travel alert warns about large gatherings and rallies, many of a political nature, that are expected to be held throughout Turkey in late March and April 2017.  U.S. Mission Turkey recommends that U.S. citizens avoid all gatherings, protests, or demonstrations in Turkey, regardless of their purpose, due to the potential for violence or personal injury.  Under the current state of emergency, participation in illegal gatherings, protests, and/or demonstrations can result in detention or arrest.