If you’re planning international travel, you may need to rethink your destination. The United States has officially placed parts of Mexico on its “Do Not Travel” list, grouping it with Russia, Israel, Iran, Belarus, North Korea, Ukraine, and Iraq due to escalating security risks. This designation warns US citizens of violent crime, kidnappings, and cartel activity in several Mexican states, making travel increasingly dangerous.

With Mexico now joining countries affected by war, terrorism, and political instability, the tourism sector faces major disruptions. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean have already suspended stops in high-risk areas, and airlines may adjust routes in response to safety concerns. The advisory could also impact Mexico’s tourism-driven economy, especially in states where violence threatens visitor safety. Travelers should stay informed and consider alternative destinations as these risks continue to evolve.

So, what’s happening, and how does this impact travelers? Let’s break it down.

Why Is Mexico on the ‘Do Not Travel’ List?

Mexico’s addition to the “Do Not Travel” list is largely due to widespread cartel violence, gang activity, and an increase in kidnappings. Some areas have become so dangerous that even US government employees have travel restrictions in place.

The advisory specifically names five states as being too risky for visitors:

• Colima is dealing with constant cartel violence and organized crime.
• Guerrero has extremely high levels of kidnapping and violent crime.
• Michoacán is known for ongoing gang-related violence.
• Sinaloa remains a major cartel stronghold, with frequent kidnappings.
• Tamaulipas sees high levels of crime, including carjackings and abductions.

In these states, homicides, armed robberies, and cartel conflicts are common, making travel extremely dangerous. The US government warns that assistance to citizens in these regions is very limited.

Who Else Is on the ‘Do Not Travel’ List?

Mexico now joins several other nations that have been classified as too risky for US travelers due to war, terrorism, government repression, and civil unrest.

Middle East and Conflict Zones

The US strongly advises against traveling to Gaza and northern Israel near the Lebanese and Syrian borders due to ongoing military operations, terrorist activity, and armed conflict. The situation remains highly volatile, with unpredictable escalations.

The advisory also warns against travel to the West Bank and other parts of Israel due to increased terrorism threats and civil unrest.

Russia and Ukraine – Ongoing War and Security Threats

The US government urges all Americans to leave Russia immediately. Wrongful detentions, harassment by security forces, and restricted flights make it an incredibly dangerous destination. With the ongoing war in Ukraine, travel is even riskier, as missile strikes and ground combat continue to affect civilian areas.

Ukraine remains off-limits due to Russia’s full-scale invasion, frequent drone and missile attacks, and active military operations near the Belarus border. The war has created an unstable environment where travel is life-threatening.

Iran and Iraq – Extreme Risks for US Citizens

Iran is a particularly dangerous destination for US travelers. Wrongful detentions, civil unrest, terrorism, and kidnappings are serious threats. The Iranian government has a history of arresting US citizens, especially dual nationals, on false charges of espionage.

Iraq also remains highly unsafe due to armed conflict, terrorist activity, and frequent kidnappings. Militants often target US citizens, and emergency consular services are extremely limited. Anti-American groups operate in many regions, making it a high-risk destination.

Belarus – Political Instability and War Risks

Belarus has been deemed unsafe due to its authoritarian government, arbitrary detentions, and support for Russia’s war against Ukraine. The US advises all citizens currently in Belarus to leave immediately.

North Korea – Risk of Detention and No US Embassy Assistance

North Korea is one of the most dangerous places for Americans to visit. The US government has banned travel there due to the high risk of wrongful detainment. Any US citizen caught in North Korea faces extreme legal consequences, and emergency assistance is virtually impossible since the US has no diplomatic presence there.

What This Means for Travelers

The US expanding its “Do Not Travel” list highlights growing global instability. If you have travel plans to any of these regions, consider these key precautions:

Check the latest travel advisories to stay informed about potential risks.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time safety updates and emergency assistance.
Avoid high-risk areas, even if your destination isn’t officially restricted.
Have a solid exit strategy in place in case conditions worsen unexpectedly.

With parts of Mexico now placed alongside Russia, Iran, North Korea, and other high-risk countries, travelers need to be extra cautious. While some destinations in Mexico remain safe for tourism, certain regions are now considered too dangerous.

Before booking any international travel, make sure to check the latest US Department of State Travel Advisory and take safety seriously.

The post Mexico Joins Russia, Israel, Iran, Belarus, North Korea, Ukraine, and Iraq on US Do Not Travel List – New Advisory You Need to Know About The Tourism Sector appeared first on Travel And Tour World.