Karachi (TDI): The United States has temporarily restricted its diplomats and officials from visiting upscale hotels in Karachi following a reported security threat, according to a statement issued by the US State Department on Friday.
The advisory, shared through a formal security alert, noted that the US Consulate General in Karachi had received information suggesting a potential threat targeting high-end hotels in the city.
“As a precaution, official US government personnel have been advised to avoid these locations until further notice,” the statement said.
The State Department explained that in response to such security concerns, it often designates certain public areas, such as popular tourist spots, hotels, shopping malls, and restaurants, as restricted zones for US officials abroad.
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The alert also called on American citizens to steer clear of large gatherings and high-traffic areas, urging them to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary attention, and exercise heightened caution in locations frequented by Western visitors.
The US government already maintains a travel advisory for Pakistan, recommending that American travelers reconsider their plans due to persistent threats of terrorism and the potential for regional instability.
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Echoing the caution, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office also issued updated guidance on Friday, advising British nationals to avoid all but essential travel to certain parts of Pakistan.
Farkhund Yousafzai is an Associate Editor at The Diplomatic Insight.
