Turmoil overseas has prompted the U.S. State Department to make LGBTQ people aware of the increased potential of terrorist attacks.

A security alert, titled “Worldwide Caution,” was issued May 17, advising U.S. citizens abroad to exercise vigilance. The State Department acknowledged “increased potential for foreign terrorist organizations-inspired violence against LGBTQI+ persons and events.”

The State Department alert comes on the heels of a public service announcement from the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security.

“...to provide awareness to the public of foreign terrorist organizations (FTOS) or their supporters potential targeting of LGBTQIA+-related events and venues. Foreign terrorist organizations or supporters may seek to exploit increased gatherings associated with the upcoming June 2024 Pride Month.”

The global alert comes in advance of next June’s Pride celebrations. Venues and locations frequented by tourists and LGBTQ people have a greater potential to become targets for terrorists, State Department officials said.

According to the FBI PSA, last year there was a planned attack in Europe during pride month.

“...three alleged ISIS sympathizers were arrested for attempting to attack a Pride parade in Vienna, Austria, using knives and a vehicle as part of the attack.”

The alert from the State Department came on the same day the agency commemorated the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia, and Transphobia.

Updated on May 21 at 9:03 a.m.: This story was updated to include more context surrounding the alert. We also removed a quote that did not add any substance to the story, and a reference to the Pulse shooting that was incorrect.