U.S. warns citizens to avoid Indonesia because of opposition to war in Iraq

WASHINGTON -- The State Department, citing the war in Iraq, is warning Americans against traveling to Indonesia while urging U.S. citizens already there to consider leaving the Southeast Asian country.

Because of the war, Indonesia's "frequent political demonstrations may escalate, increasing the potential for anti-American violence and for terrorist actions against U.S. citizens and interests," the department said in a travel warning Saturday.

It said people already in Indonesia should re-evaluate their security situation and consider getting out.

Last October, the department ordered the departure of family members and nonemergency personnel affiliated with the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta and the consulate general in Surabaya.

The Australian Foreign Ministry also warned its nationals Saturday to avoid Indonesia. On Sunday, Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said the terror group blamed for October's attacks at a resort on the Indonesian island Bali was believed to be planning a new attack.