U.S. Embassy in Tirana issues security alert citing groups associated with Iran; officials see no concrete threat

The U.S. Embassy in Tirana issued a security alert on April 1 urging Americans to "exercise increased vigilance," warning that "groups associated with Iran may seek to target entities associated with the U.S.

or Iranian opposition elements in Albania." The alert added that such groups "may also target common venues, such as tourist sites, shopping malls, hotels, clubs and restaurants." The State Department advised travelers to stay alert, be aware of their surroundings, monitor local media, and keep cell phones charged in case of emergency.

It also encourages U.S. citizens abroad to enroll in the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which provides email updates and alerts from U.S. embassies and consulates. Albania remains under a Level 2 travel advisory, recommending travelers "exercise increased caution." The advisory, last updated on December 31, 2024, cites crime as the primary reason for concern.

Albanian authorities emphasized there is no specific intelligence indicating an imminent threat.

In an April 2 statement, the Ministry of Internal Affairs said there is "no concrete information about a real threat to security." After communicating with anti-terrorism police and the Department of Public Safety and Criminal Police, which are in contact with the Security Office of the American Embassy, Minister of Internal Affairs Besfort Lamallari said there was no concrete information, including intelligence, about a real dangerous situation.

He added, "The fact is that Albania remains a safe country for Albanian citizens and for all those who visit Albania." Tourism continues to grow: the number of foreign visitors reached 12.47 million in 2025, up about 6.6% from 2024, according to Albanian Daily News, citing the country’s statistical office.

About 71.5% of those tourists came from Southern Europe. For now, U.S. officials advise heightened awareness while traveling in Albania, and local authorities say they will continue to monitor the situation in coordination with security partners.