Non-essential staff evacuated due to increased security threats.
The United States has ordered non-emergency personnel to evacuate its consulates in Karachi and Lahore due to heightened security risks across Pakistan, including threats of terrorism and kidnapping.
The advisory specifically warns against travel to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province and the Line of Control in Kashmir, where active militant groups frequently target civilians, government staff, and security forces. Reports include assassinations, kidnappings, and attacks on polio teams, as well as police and military personnel.
US citizens planning travel to Pakistan are urged to:
- Avoid high-risk areas entirely, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province and the Line of Control.
- Monitor local media and remain alert in public spaces, markets, hotels, and near government or military locations.
- Vary travel routes and schedules and avoid public demonstrations or large gatherings.
- Keep travel documents accessible and enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive emergency updates.
- Maintain a communication plan with family, employers, or hosts, and review emergency evacuation procedures.
- Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.
The US State Department emphasizes relying on official sources for updates and urges travellers to adjust plans promptly in response to changing security conditions.
