This Travel Warning is being issued to reflect an expansion in the area of fighting in Liberia, the inability of U.S. diplomats to access and provide emergency services in much of the country, and statements by Liberian officials that could incite violence against Americans. Together these factors represent a deterioration in the security environment. This supersedes the January 17, 2003, Travel Warning for Liberia.

The Department of State reaffirms its warning to U.S. citizens against traveling to or remaining in Liberia due to the unstable security situation throughout the country. During the last year, rebels have clashed with government troops in a number of areas, including the counties of Bomi, Bong, Gbarpolu, Grand Cape Mount, Grand Gedeh, Lofa, and Margibi. The fighting may spread to other areas without warning. While fighting tends to increase during the dry season, acts of organized violence can occur at any time. Due to the fighting, principal roads to Sierra Leone and Guinea, and from Monrovia to the western part of the country, are closed. Other roads may also close. There is also a high threat of common crime.

The presence of heavily armed government security personnel can constitute a serious danger as well. Military roadblocks throughout the country serve as potential flash points. Furthermore, inflammatory statements by senior Liberian government officials regarding U.S. policies and presence in Liberia could incite violence against American interests.

The general security situation and travel restrictions placed on U.S. diplomats by the Government of Liberia limit the Embassy's ability to provide assistance to U.S. citizens outside the Monrovia area. U.S. citizens in Liberia should check with the Embassy for current information about restrictions on the movement of Embassy officials. The Department prohibits dependents from accompanying U.S. Government employees to Liberia.

U.S. citizens who choose to travel to or remain in Liberia despite this warning should be aware of their surroundings at all times and use caution in traveling. Travel anywhere after dark is strongly discouraged. Owing to the potential for violence, U.S. citizens should avoid crowds, political rallies and street demonstrations. In addition, due to animosities among security forces, U.S. citizens should avoid any gathering of such forces. Americans should report any threats or suspicious activity to the Embassy in Monrovia and monitor the local media for developments that may affect their safety and security.

Americans in Liberia are strongly urged to register and to obtain updated information on travel and security in Liberia at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy at 111 United Nations Drive, Mamba Point, Monrovia, Liberia, telephone (231) 226-370, fax (231) 226-148. Travelers should also consult the Department of State's latest Consular Information Sheet for Liberia and Worldwide Caution Public Announcement at http://travel.state.gov.