• By Kamal Kumar
  • Sun, 06 Oct 2024 09:54 AM (IST)
  • Source:JND

Amid the soaring tensions in Middle-East Asia, the US issued an advisory to its citizens in Pakistan, asking them to stay alert and avoid protest places between October 4 to 7. The advisory, issued by the US embassy and consulates, also urged American nationals to stay away from large gatherings and monitor local media for updates.

The warning followed a decision by the Pakistan government to rope in the Army to take control of law and order in Karachi and Islamabad in the wake of Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaaf (PTI) protests. Notably, Pakistan is hosting the 23rd Heads of Government meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on October 15-16.

"Large crowds and traffic congestion are expected, along with a precautionary security presence, an increased number of checkpoints, and associated disruptions to local mobile and internet networks in the region. Intercity travel and traffic congestion could continue beyond October 7," the advisory, which was released on Friday, stated.

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The advisory also asked US citizens to exercise caution and leave any areas experiencing large gatherings or demonstrations. It also asked them to review their personal security plan.

"US citizens are encouraged to avoid any large gatherings and monitor local media for updates. Movement of US Mission personnel may be impacted due to changes in security or traffic conditions. US citizens are reminded that protests can be fluid in nature and even peaceful gatherings can turn violent. Internet and mobile phone service outages are common, especially during protests," the statement mentioned.

us advisory pakistan nws

(Imran Khan's portrait seen as PTI, JI supporters protest election results in Karachi (Image Credit: Reuters))

"US citizens are reminded that protests can be fluid in nature and even peaceful gatherings can turn violent. Internet and mobile phone service outages are common, especially during protests," the alert warned.

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The US citizens in Pakistan are also asked to keep a low profile and carry their identification with them.

Meanwhile, movements of troops were seen inside the red zones in the city limits of Islamabad and Karachi, ARY news reported.