Washington (Agencies): The United States Department of State has urged its citizens to reconsider travel to Pakistan due to the threat of terrorism and the potential for armed conflict. In an updated travel advisory issued on March 7, the State Department highlighted increased risks in several areas and imposed restrictions on US government personnel operating in the country.
The advisory specifically warns against travel to Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), and the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), citing frequent terrorist attacks. Additionally, US citizens have been advised to avoid areas near the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control (LoC) due to heightened tensions and security risks.
The review stated that violent extremist groups continue to plot attacks targeting civilians, law enforcement, and government institutions. “Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist attractions, schools, hospitals, places of worship, and government facilities,” it warned, adding that US diplomats and diplomatic missions have previously been targeted.
The advisory also noted that US government personnel in Pakistan face travel restrictions and require special authorization to visit most areas outside Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. The US embassy mandates the use of armed escorts and armored vehicles for official and personal travel in certain parts of the country.
Furthermore, the review pointed out limitations in consular assistance for dual US-Pakistani citizens arrested or detained in Pakistan, as local law considers them solely Pakistani nationals.
This warning comes amid reports that the US administration is considering new travel restrictions on several countries, including Pakistan and Afghanistan, as part of a broader crackdown on immigration policies. According to Reuters, such measures could be implemented as early as next week.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office has not issued an official response to the advisory, with spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan stating that he had not reviewed the report in question.