Even if there are no specific threats against U.S. citizens who are traveling overseas, the U.S. Department of State nevertheless issued on Friday a worldwide travel alert. The reason behind the warning is the Sydney Siege which resulted in the death of two Australians.

Although the gunman was an Islam follower, his taking hostage 17 customers and the manager of the Lindt Chocolate Café on Monday was considered a lone wolf attack and not part of the terror sowed by members of the Islamic State operating mainly in Iraq and Syria.

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The State Department noted that unpredictable people like the Iranian gunman who migrated to Australia as well as "terrorist groups and those inspired by them can pose unpredictable threats in public venues."

The department advised Americans traveling abroad for the Christmas holidays to be more cautious and be extra vigilant as well as put in place measures that would enhance their personal security.

According to the warning, "An analysis of past attacks and threat reporting strongly suggests a focus by terrorists not only on the targeting of U.S. government facilities but also on hotels, shopping areas, placed of worship, and schools, among other targets, during or coinciding with this holiday period."

It also reminded Americans to be always alert to what is happening in the places they go to and be on the lookout for indicators of danger.

The last time that the State Department issues a worldwide travel alert was in 2013 over threats from al Qaeda. The Friday warning was the first similar alert it issued in 2014, although it remains in force until March 19, 2015.

Tagstravel alert, U.S. State Department, Sydney Hostage