"Risk Of Kidnapping, Terrorism": US' Travel Warning For Pakistan

The United States has urged its citizens to "reconsider travel" to Pakistan, citing security concerns, including crime, civil unrest, terrorism, and the risk of kidnapping. The US State Department updated its travel advisory earlier this week, placing Pakistan under a 'Level 3' category that indicates a high risk of terrorist attacks.

The US advisory warned US citizens that terrorist attacks may occur without warning. According to the State Department, typical targets include "transportation hubs, hotels, markets, shopping malls, military and security sites, airports, trains, schools, hospitals, places of worship, tourist locations, and government buildings."

The United States also designated certain regions, including parts of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as "Level 4: Do Not Travel" areas – which is the highest warning level issued by the State Department.

The advisory urged Americans not to travel to Level 4 areas "for any reason", warning that assassination and kidnapping attempts are common in such areas, particularly against government officials and private citizens. The State Department said the warning applies to US citizens of Pakistani origin as well.

The advisory also cautioned that local laws in Pakistan prohibit demonstrations without a permit, noting that "US citizens have been detained for participating" in such activities in the past, urging people not to do so. 

"You can also face detention for posting content on social media viewed as critical of the Pakistani government, military, or officials," the State Department said.

The advisory comes amid a deteriorating law and order situation in Pakistan, driven by a surge in terrorism.

How Does The US Characterise Travel Advisories?

The United States issues four levels of travel advisory-- Level 1 through Level 4.

'Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions' is the lowest level of advisory. It cautions people of certain risks in that area, advising travelers to take precautions while on their visit.

'Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution' is issued when there is a heightened risk for safety and security in that area, and travelers need to take extra caution.

'Level 3: Reconsider Travel' is issued in case of serious safety risks, advising travelers to reconsider their travel plans to this destination.

'Level 4: Do Not Travel' is the highest level of advisory, recommending strongly against travelling to any destinations due to many factors, one of which is that the US government might not be able to provide travellers any assistance in the event of an emergency.