AUSTRALIAN and other foreign officials were being refused entry into New Orleans last night because America fears they could be shot by gangs looting and raping in the devastated city.
Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer expressed his frustration as dozens of Australians remained stranded in New Orleans. The US State Department said it was not safe for Australian officials to go to their aid.
Instead several trapped Australians have been rescued by media organisations.
http://www.theage.com.au/news/world/officials-access-to-city-blocked/2005/09/03/1125302782222.htmlI don't remember diplomats being refused entry into areas hit by the tsunami...