On March 22, President Beji Caid Essebsi renewed Tunisia’s state of emergency, which was put into effect after last year’s attacks, extending it three months until June 22.

The State Department warned US citizens on Friday against travelling to southeastern Tunisia near the Libyan border because groups affiliated with ISIS militants have targeted Tunisian security forces and tourist sites in the region.

The warning, which is more serious than the travel alert issued a month ago, calls for US citizens to avoid travelling near the Libyan border or the mountainous areas of western Tunisia and to exercise caution in all places in Tunisia frequented by tourists. The country’s tourism revenue has plummeted.

US citizens are urged to avoid Tunisian political gatherings, large crowds and demonstrations and to be alert to the possibility of kidnapping, the warning said.

Dozens of foreigners were killed in two major attacks by extremist militants in Tunisia last year.

On March 22, President Beji Caid Essebsi renewed Tunisia’s state of emergency, which was put into effect after last year’s attacks, extending it three months until June 22.

“Travelers contemplating trips to the interior of Tunisia should assess local conditions and routes when making travel plans,” the State Department warned. “In particular, all travel south of the designated military zone in the south must be coordinated in advance with Tunisian authorities.”

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