The US State Department has renewed and raised its travel advisory for Belgium, moving the country to Level 2, "Exercise Increased Caution," citing risks from crime, terrorism and civil unrest. The update serves as a reminder to American travellers heading to the popular European destination to remain vigilant, coming amid a wider pattern of the department issuing or updating advisories for several holiday hotspots this summer.

The advisory flags ongoing concerns about street crime alongside the continued threat of terrorist attacks, which officials say could target tourist sites, transport hubs and other public spaces without warning. It also warns of the potential for civil unrest, such as protests or demonstrations, which travellers are advised to avoid. The State Department has not indicated a timeline for reviewing or downgrading the advisory.