US issues Europe travel alert

The US State Department on Monday issued an alert to its citizens about the risk of terrorist attacks in Europe during the upcoming holiday season.

The State Department warning comes a day after French authorities arrested seven men on terrorism charges and foiled a planned terror attack, Xinhua news agency reported.

"Credible information indicates the Islamic State, Al-Qaeda and their affiliates continue to plan terrorist attacks in Europe, with a focus on the upcoming holiday season and associated events," said the alert, warning US citizens of both planned and lone-wolf attacks.

"Terrorists may employ a wide variety of tactics, using both conventional and nonconventional weapons and targeting both official and private interests," read the alert, valid till February 20 next year.

Aged between 29 and 37 years, the arrested suspects are of French, Moroccan and Afghan origin, according to French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve.

"In spite of the effort we deploy, zero risk cannot be guaranteed," said Cazeneuve.

The French minister said 418 people had been arrested so far as part of anti-terror operations following deadly attacks in the country.

--IANS

py/vt