Topic: US citizens warned about Iraqi vote

WASHINGTON, Dec 13, 2005 (AFP) - The US State Department said Tuesday the
risk of increased violence in Iraq around Thursday's elections was
"extremely high" and renewed its warnings to American citizens to stay out
of the country.

A public announcement said the US Embassy in Baghdad had instructed official
US personnel in the country to limit their travel around Thursday's polls as
much as possible and others should follow suit.

"During this period, the potential for increased violence remains extremely
high," the announcement said.

"The Department of State continues to strongly warn US citizens against
travel to Iraq and remains concerned about the continued threat of terrorist
attacks against US citizens and interests in Iraq."