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The U.S. Embassy in Guatemala issued the following statement: security warning He warned Americans to use “extra caution” when visiting the Central American country.
“The U.S. Embassy has lifted its shelter-in-place order for its staff,” the alert issued Sunday said. “The situation remains tense, with coordinated armed attacks against police in several areas of Guatemala City.”
The embassy advises Americans to monitor local media for updates, avoid crowds and demonstrations, and maintain a “low profile.”
Travel recommendations to destinations become stricter due to ‘violent crime’
Travelers are advised to review their personal safety plans and minimize unnecessary travel.
The alert looks like this Gang attacks Guatemalan police after taking control of three prisons in coordinated riots, the Associated Press reported.
Gang revolts in three Guatemalan prisons recently left 10 police officers dead. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)
According to the Guatemala Tourism Association, more than 2.9 million international tourists visited Guatemala from January to November 2025.
President Bernardo Arevalo declared a state of emergency. Prisoners took 43 guards hostage. Killed 10 police officers.
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“There was organized action by self-proclaimed maras or gangs.” national security forces“This includes armed attacks against civilian authorities,” the declaration states.
According to the Associated Press, the violence has been linked to major criminal organizations such as Barrio 18 and Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13), both of which are recognized as terrorist organizations by Guatemala and the United States.
The embassy advises Americans to monitor local media for updates, avoid crowds and demonstrations, and maintain a “low profile” in Getamara (aerial video view). (St. Petersburg)
At the time, the U.S. Embassy issued a statement to The Associated Press condemning the attack.
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“These terrorists, and those who collaborate with or are associated with them, have no place in our hemisphere,” the statement said.
The U.S. State Department has listed Guatemala at Level 3: Reconsider Travel. (St. Petersburg)
He continued: “The safety of the Guatemalan people and the stability of our hemisphere must be prioritized.”
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“We reaffirm our support for Guatemalan security forces in curbing violence.”
The U.S. Department of State has listed Guatemala at “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” status.
“We reaffirm our support for Guatemalan security forces in curbing violence.”
The State Department has established four travel advisory levels to help travelers assess safety risks before visiting other countries.
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The advisory levels are: Level 1 – Take normal precautions. Level 2 – Be extra careful. Level 3 – Reconsider travel. Level 4 – Travel prohibited.
The Associated Press contributed reporting.
