Beyond conflict zones, authoritarian regimes pose their own dangers. In Iran, Americans risk detention under “vague or politically motivated charges.” Myanmar has become highly unstable since the 2021 coup, with foreigners detained and bombings common. North Korea is even more severe, where minor offenses can result in “lengthy imprisonment or forced labor.”
Political Collapse and Crime
Haiti is overrun by gangs and public institutions have “collapsed,” leaving foreigners as frequent kidnapping targets. In Libya, lawlessness and the lack of a U.S. embassy leave travelers exposed. Lebanon suffers from failing infrastructure, militias, and spillover violence from nearby conflicts.
War-Adjoining States and Instability
Russia, Iraq, and others remain high-risk due to military operations and political crackdowns. Iraq continues to face “bombings, rocket attacks, and armed clashes,” while Russia poses risks of arbitrary detention.
The State Department warns: “Safety concerns now outweigh [these countries’] attractions.
