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US Warns Citizens Against Travel to Pakistan Amid Security Concerns
The US State Department urges citizens to reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism risks and potential armed conflict. Restrictions may tighten under new policies.
ND
by News Desk
2025-03-08
US Warns Citizens Against Travel to Pakistan Amid Security Concerns

The United States Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs has issued a travel advisory urging US citizens to reconsider visiting Pakistan due to heightened security risks, including terrorism and the potential for armed conflict.

The advisory, updated on March 7, specifically warns against travel to Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) provinces, including the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). Additionally, the US government cautioned against travel near the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control (LoC) due to the risk of terrorism and cross-border tensions.

Potential Travel Ban on Pakistani Citizens

This advisory comes amid reports that the Biden administration may soon introduce restrictions on travelers from several countries, including Pakistan and Afghanistan. According to a Reuters report, the new policy could come into effect as early as next week, potentially barring people from these countries from entering the US.

The move follows an executive order signed by US President Donald Trump on January 20, which intensified security screenings for foreign nationals. Under this directive, a review process was initiated to identify countries with inadequate vetting and screening processes. A final list of countries facing travel restrictions was expected to be submitted by March 12.

Concerns Over Security and Consular Limitations

The US travel advisory highlights an increased threat from violent extremist groups in Pakistan. It warns that terrorist attacks could target transportation hubs, markets, shopping centers, military facilities, airports, universities, schools, hospitals, places of worship, and government buildings. The advisory also states that US diplomats and diplomatic facilities have been targeted in the past.

Due to these risks, US government personnel in Pakistan face restrictions on movement. Travel outside of major cities such as Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi requires special authorization. The advisory also notes that the US Embassy and Consulates have “limited ability to provide consular services” to dual US-Pakistani citizens who are arrested or detained, as Pakistani law does not recognize dual nationality in such cases.

Pakistan’s Response

During a press briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan avoided direct comment on the report, stating that he had not reviewed the document. The Pakistani government has yet to formally respond to the potential travel restrictions.

The advisory and potential travel ban come at a critical time for US-Pakistan relations, as both countries navigate diplomatic and security challenges. If implemented, the restrictions could have significant implications for Pakistani travelers, students, and professionals with ties to the United States.
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