Elections 2024: US releases new travel advisory for its citizen in Pakistan

Washington: For its nationals in Pakistan, the United States has released a new travel recommendation that strongly advises against traveling to particular areas.

The advice is given as Pakistan prepares for its 12th general election, which will take place next week, in the midst of a growing terrorism issue that has recently heightened relations with Tehran and Kabul.

The US State Department warned against attending political marches and demonstrations and urged all nationals of the United States to exercise caution in the lead-up to the general elections.

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Washington emphasized the potential to cause traffic jams, transit disruptions, and safety hazards as armed organizations target political gatherings in South Asian countries.

Additionally, the alert advised US citizens planning a trip to Pakistan to exercise caution and keep themselves informed about the locations of political gatherings in the areas they will be visiting.

It stated that on February 8, congested conditions were predicted in the vicinity of polling places, and that cellular and internet service outages were also predicted during that time.

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American nationals were instructed to follow local media sources for news, keep a low profile, carry identification, and assist local law enforcement. In order to receive security updates, it also advised signing up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (Step). Further details can be found on the official website of the US Embassy.

It further stated that US nationals residing in Pakistan can get in touch with the US Embassy in Islamabad, the US Consulate Generals in Washington, D.C., and Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar.