Car rental Spain - Safety and Security

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Safety and Security

SAFETY AND SECURITY: Spain and Andorra share with the rest of the world an increased threat of international Islamic terrorist incidents. On March 11, 2004, terrorists bombed four commuter trains coming into Madrid causing close to 200 deaths and over 1,400 injuries.

The ETA terrorist organization remains active in Spain; historically, ETA attacks have been directed against the police, military, local politicians, and Spanish government targets. However, in February 2004, ETA reiterated its intention to target Spanish tourist areas, advising that foreign nationals could be among the victims. In December 2003, Spanish police thwarted an ETA attempt to bomb a train loaded with pre-holiday travelers. On March 1, 2004, Spanish authorities intercepted 500 kilograms of explosives, which suspected ETA terrorists were taking to Madrid. Since 2001, ETA attacks have included a number of car-bomb incidents, some occurring in areas frequented by tourists, including the Madrid and Malaga airports. While there were no American fatalities from these incidents, there have been a number of injuries. U.S. tourists traveling to Spain should remain vigilant, exercise caution, monitor local developments, and avoid demonstrations and other potentially violent situations.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements can be found.