The US embassy to Iceland urges US citizens, both residents and tourists, to avoid the embassy area Thursday afternoon, when protests by Bradley/Chelsea Manning supporters are planned to take place in front of the embassy.
Supporters of Chelsea Manning, who until recently was known as Bradley Manning, are organizing protests at 17:00 by the US embassy on Laufásvegur.
“Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations,” reads the letter of which DV has attained a copy.
Read the letter in full below.
United States Embassy Reykjavik, Iceland
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Demonstration
August 22, 2013
The U.S.
Embassy in Reykjavik informs U.S. citizens that there is a planned demonstration today, Thursday, August 22, in front of the U.S. Embassy, starting at 17:00, by the Bradley Manning support network in Iceland. The Embassy is located at Laufasvegur 21, near downtown Reykjavik.
We urge U.S. citizens to avoid the immediate area if possible, and to exercise caution near any demonstrations that may occur. Monitor local media and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.
Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates. Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Iceland enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at www.Travel.State.Gov. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
We also suggest you regularly monitor the Bureau of Consular Affairs website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country-Specific Information Sheet for Iceland. For additional information, refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” on the State Department’s website.
Contact the U.S. Embassy for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App through iTunes and the Google Play Store for travel information at your fingertips.
The U.S. Embassy in Reykjavik is located at 21 Laufasvegur, near downtown Reykjavik, and is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Individuals needing consular assistance can contact the American Citizens Services Unit at the U.S. Embassy in Reykjavik by calling +354-562-9100during office hours, or by e-mail at reykjavikconsular@state.gov. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, the emergency number for the U.S. Embassy is +354-595-2248.
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