Moroccan Consulate: closed early today (9/12)

[kristen_maroc 126]

Per warden email:

Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens: Consulate Early Closure due to Demonstrations, September 12, 2012

September 12, 2012

Media sources have reported protests in the region. Due to the possibility of further protests, the Consulate is closed to the public this afternoon. The U.S. Embassy in Rabat is in close contact with Moroccan authorities to assess the possibilities of demonstrations in Morocco.

The Consulate urges U.S. citizens to avoid large gatherings and non-essential travel in and around the city center this afternoon and to be mindful of potential protest activity in this area in the near future. Even demonstrations or events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. U.S. citizens in Morocco are urged to monitor local news reports and to plan their activities accordingly.

The potential for terrorist violence against U.S. interests and citizens remains elevated in Morocco. It is important for U.S. citizens to be keenly aware of their surroundings and adhere to prudent security practices such as avoiding predictable travel patterns and maintaining a low profile. Establishments that are readily identifiable with the United States or other Western countries are potential targets for attacks. These may include facilities where U.S. citizens and other foreigners congregate, including clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, hotels, movie theaters and other public areas.

U.S. citizens needing assistance should call the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca at 0522-26-71-51 or after hours at 0661-13-19-39.

U.S. citizens living or traveling in Morocco are advised to maintain valid travel documents and enroll in the Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive the latest travel updates and information and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Morocco. U.S. citizens without Internet access may enroll directly with the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca. By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Consulate General to contact them in case of emergency. U.S. citizens are also encouraged to visit our website at: http://morocco.usembassy.gov.

The Consulate reminds U.S. citizens to review their personal security plans and remain alert to their surroundings at all times in Morocco. For the latest security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State’s Internet website where the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found. You can also follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and on Facebook. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada, or, for callers outside of the United States and Canada, on a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

[Shoot Em Straight 385]

Sorry for those with appointments...I assume after Friday Prayers there might be protests but it is quiet here now...

[hamigirl710 112]

I just seen this story that they protested in Morocco today too.

http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hNum2gh0Xrg44prdwnoJRGZkZfuQ?docId=CNG.0d4bb2319ab51dd6f7a34cecaab1cf20.171

My condolences to those who lost their lives in Libya.

Do you think they will close the consulate for an extended period of time?

[SarAyouBliss 38]

I just seen this story that they protested in Morocco today too.

http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hNum2gh0Xrg44prdwnoJRGZkZfuQ?docId=CNG.0d4bb2319ab51dd6f7a34cecaab1cf20.171

My condolences to those who lost their lives in Libya.

Do you think they will close the consulate for an extended period of time?

My condolences to families who lost their beloved.

I pray everything settle down, It's really sad sad.

[mounir412 101]

very sad