Citing possible terror attacks, US warns Americans against travelling to Pakistan

WASHINGTON: US has warned its citizens against travelling to Pakistan citing possible terror attacks from al-Qaeda, Taliban elements and indigenous militant sectarian groups.

"Threat reporting indicates terrorist groups continue to seek opportunities to attack locations where US citizens and Westerners are known to congregate or visit, such as shopping areas, hotels, clubs and restaurants, places of worship, schools, and outdoor recreation events," the State Department said in its travel advisory.

Travel to much of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province and Balochistan was also restricted as per the new advisory that replaces the one issued earlier on February 2.

It also "strongly urged" the US citizens to avoid hotels that do not apply "stringent security measures" and asked them to maintain good situational awareness, particularly when visiting locations "frequented by Westerners."

"Since the announcement that Osama bin Laden was killed in Abbottabad, Pakistan on May 2, 2011, US citizens should be aware of the possible increase in the threat level throughout the country. This might include an increased threat against Westerners," the advisory said.