"The embassy reminds US citizens that even peaceful gatherings can turn violent and spread over neighborhoods with little or no warning," the US embassy in Lebanon said in a statement. "The embassy therefore strongly urges US citizens visiting or residing in Lebanon to remain vigilant, monitor news reports, avoid large gatherings of people, and carefully consider their safety and security before choosing to visit popular gathering spots or places where large numbers of people are commonly found," it added.
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is due in Beirut on Wednesday for a two-day official visit.
Washington last week renewed a travel warning for Americans seeking to visit Lebanon and those living in the country especially in light of a political crisis. "The Department of State continues to urge US citizens to avoid all travel to Lebanon due to current safety and security concerns," it said in a statement. "US citizens living and working in Lebanon should understand that they accept risks in remaining and should carefully consider those risks."
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