The US State Department issued a travel advisory on Friday, warning against travel near the India-Pakistan border, Line of Control, and the provinces of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, citing concerns about “terrorism and the potential for armed conflict.”
The advisory specifically urged Americans to avoid Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (including former FATA regions), and areas adjacent to the India-Pakistan border and Line of Control, due to security risks.
“Violent extremist groups continue to plot attacks in Pakistan. Terrorist attacks are frequent in Balochistan province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, which include the former FATA. Large-scale terrorist attacks have resulted in numerous casualties, and small-scale attacks are frequent,” the advisory said.
“Terrorism and ongoing violence by extremist elements have led to indiscriminate attacks on civilians, as well as local military and police targets. 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. Terrorists have targeted US diplomats and diplomatic facilities in the past,” it added.
The security situation in Pakistan remains unpredictable, with possible sudden changes. Regarding the “Vicinity of Line of Control – Level 4: Do Not Travel”, the advisory stated, “Do not travel to the India-Pakistan border, including areas along the Line of Control for any reason. Militant groups are known to operate in the area. India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on their respective sides of the border.”
“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. Travellers are advised to confirm the status of the border crossing prior to commencing travel. An Indian visa is required to enter India, and no visa services are available at the border,” it continued.
The advisory further designated Balochistan province as “Level 4: Do Not Travel”, citing extremist groups and separatist movements conducting deadly attacks against civilians, religious minorities, government offices, and security forces.
The advisory also warned that “do not travel to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, which includes the former FATA, for any reason” noting frequent terrorist and insurgent attacks against civilians, NGOs, government offices, and security forces.
“These groups historically have targeted both government officials and civilians. Assassination and kidnapping attempts are common, including the targeting of polio eradication teams and Government of Pakistan security service (police and military) personnel,” it added.