Duke Officials Monitoring State Department Terrorism Alert

Duke officials continue to monitor a U.S. Department of State alert about the potential for terrorist attacks, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa.

Kyle Cavanaugh, emergency coordinator and vice president for Duke's administration, said coordinators for global education and international programs have been informed about the alert.

"We are sharing this information with students, faculty and staff so they are aware of the safety and security issues," Cavanaugh said. "We will continue to monitor the situation."

The State Department issued the worldwide travel alert Friday to U.S. citizens and noted the possibility of attacks occurring in or emanating from the Arabian Peninsula.

"Current information suggests that al-Qa'ida and affiliated organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks both in the region and beyond, and that they may focus efforts to conduct attacks in the period between now and the end of August," according to the alert issued by the State Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs.

Duke community members traveling abroad on Duke business are encouraged to use the International Travel Registry and familiarize themselves with guidance from International SOS, Duke's travel assistance program.