WASHINGTON (Kashmir English): The United States has issued a new travel advisory, urging American citizens to avoid travel to Pakistan and India due to serious security concerns, including the threat of terrorism, violent crime, and the potential for armed conflict near border areas.
According to the US State Department, the travel advisory warns American citizens about travelling to India and Pakistan, especially to areas like Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh, where the risk of attacks remains high. The advisory highlights that these areas are prone to significant security threats amid the tense situation.
The document also points out that armed clashes between Indian and Pakistani forces could occur along their shared border, including the Line of Control (LoC). American citizens are advised to exercise extreme caution and avoid areas close to these border regions.
The advisory notes that Indian tourist destinations face reports of violent incidents and criminal activities which include physical attacks. The state of Manipur stands as one of the most hazardous regions according to this travel advisory as persistent unrest and criminal activity persist.
Moreover, the travel advisory expressed serious safety concerns about certain destinations that receive many tourists. The advisory mentions increased reports of violence, criminal activity and sexual assaults in Indian tourist places. It refers to the risen Indian government statistics of rape cases across the country, warning American citizens to remain vigilant while travelling, especially in crowded or isolated places.
The travel advisory warns that India faces an active terrorist threat from groups which could launch unexpected strikes against tourist areas and major transport centres as well as shopping centres and governmental buildings.
About Pakistan, the travel advisory warned about security risks throughout the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan regions due to ongoing tense situations. The Pakistani Government imposed movement restrictions on US diplomats following the current situation in the country.
The State Department urges all American citizens to restrict their travel to Pakistan and India exclusively to necessary business due to escalating tensions and security threats.
