After the killing of Osama bin Laden by U.S. military forces, the State Department is warning overseas travelers to be cautious about potential threats of retaliation against Americans. State said there is now an “enhanced potential for anti-American violence” following bin Laden’s death. “Given the uncertainty and volatility of the current situation, U.S. citizens in areas where recent events could cause anti-American violence are strongly urged to limit their travel outside of their homes and hotels and avoid mass gatherings and demonstrations,” State said. It noted that U.S. embassies and consulates are on a “heightened state of alert,” and “may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture.” State said the new worldwide alert remains in effect through August 1, 2011, and suggested that Americans living or traveling overseas should sign up with its Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/registration/registration_4789.html to receive automatic updates on security alerts. Information on the State Department’s travel warnings and alerts is available at www.travel.state.gov.