Protests Against Israeli Military Intervention in the Gaza Strip

January 6, 2009

This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens in Germany to the continuing possibility of large and disruptive protests against Israeli military intervention in the Gaza strip.  Since the start of the Israeli actions against Hamas in the Gaza strip in late December, there have been several large demonstrations in various German cities.  To date, these demonstrations in Germany have been largely peaceful but have included some anti-U.S. slogans.  In addition, the size of these demonstrations has increased over time.  As the situation continues to evolve the possibility of larger demonstrations may increase, as does the potential for violence.   

We remind American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possible escalate into violence.  American citizens are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible, and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations.  American citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times. 

American citizens in Germany are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration web site, https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Germany.  Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consular Section (please see contact information below).  By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.  

For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Travel Alerts, Travel Warnings, Worldwide Caution, and Country Specific Information for Germany can be found.  Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). 

U.S. Consular Sections are located at:

Berlin
Clayallee 170
Tel: (49) (30)832-9233
Fax: (49) (30) 8305-1215
e-mail: ACSBerlin@state.gov 

Frankfurt
Giessner Str. 30
Tel. (49) (69) 75350
Fax: (49) (69) 7535-2304
e-mail: GermanyACS@state.gov 

Munich
Koenigstrasse 5
Tel. (49) (89) 2888-0
Fax: (49) (89) 280-9998
e-mail: ConsMunich@state.gov