Islamabad: The United States Department of State has ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members from the U.S. Consulates in Lahore and Karachi, citing heightened security risks.
The decision was announced by the U.S. Mission Pakistan. The status of the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad remains unchanged.
The move follows escalating hostilities between the United States and Iran that began on February 28, raising concerns about potential drone and missile threats in the region.
Officials also warned of disruptions to commercial flight operations due to the evolving security situation.
The travel advisory highlights ongoing terrorism risks across Pakistan. Violent extremist groups have carried out attacks in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as well as in major cities such as Karachi and Islamabad. U.S. authorities warned that attacks could target public places, security installations, transportation hubs, and government buildings without prior notice.
The advisory also emphasizes restrictions on demonstrations, warning that U.S. citizens have faced detention for participating in protests or posting content on social media deemed critical of state institutions.
Additionally, the State Department maintains a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” warning for Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and areas near the Line of Control due to terrorism and the risk of armed conflict.