US Warns Against Travel to Pakistan Amid Rising Terror Threats

The United States has released a travel advisory for Pakistan, warning American citizens against visiting the country due to heightened threats of terrorism and possible armed conflict.

Issued by the US State Department on Friday, the advisory strongly discourages travel to certain regions, particularly areas near the India-Pakistan border, the Line of Control (LoC), Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. These areas are flagged as high-risk zones due to ongoing security concerns.

Avoid Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Americans have been urged to avoid traveling to Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which encompass the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), due to persistent terrorist activities. Additionally, the advisory warns against visiting regions near the India-Pakistan border and the LoC due to the risk of both terrorism and military conflict.

According to the advisory, “violent extremist groups continue to plot attacks in Pakistan.” It highlights that Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa witness frequent terrorist incidents, ranging from large-scale attacks causing mass casualties to smaller, recurring assaults.

Escalating Security Threats

The advisory emphasizes that the security situation in Pakistan remains unpredictable, often changing without notice. While major cities like Islamabad have better security infrastructure and resources, the ability of security forces to respond to emergencies is significantly lower in other regions.

It further states that “terrorism and ongoing violence by extremist elements have led to indiscriminate attacks on civilians, as well as local military and police targets.” Potential targets include transportation hubs, shopping centers, government facilities, universities, places of worship, and even hospitals. US diplomats and diplomatic facilities have also been targeted in the past.

Strict ‘Do Not Travel’ Warning for LoC Vicinity

The advisory categorizes the “Vicinity of Line of Control – Level 4: Do Not Travel” as an area of extreme risk. It warns that militant groups operate in these regions, and both India and Pakistan maintain a heavy military presence along the border.

Travelers are informed that the “only official Pakistan-India border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the province of Punjab between Wagah, Pakistan, and Atari, India.” The advisory also stresses the need for a valid Indian visa, as no visa services are available at the border.

Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Labeled Extreme Risk Zones

Balochistan has been placed under a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” warning due to ongoing terrorist attacks by extremist and separatist groups. These groups have targeted civilians, religious minorities, security forces, and government institutions.

Similarly, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including the former FATA, has been classified under the same extreme risk level. The advisory highlights that “active terrorist and insurgent groups routinely conduct attacks against civilians, non-governmental organizations, government offices, and security forces.” It also notes that kidnappings, assassination attempts, and attacks on polio eradication teams are common in the region.

The US government strongly advises its citizens to reconsider any travel plans to Pakistan and take necessary precautions when in the country.