US Officials Advised to Shun Luxury Karachi Hotels
The US government has placed official travel on hold to luxury hotels in Karachi following a reported threat to the US Consulate in the city. A security alert made on Friday stated that government officials in the city are temporarily barred from visiting luxury hotels and have been advised to avoid these hotels until told otherwise.
Why the Urgent Advisory?
Information regarding the character of the threat hasn’t been released, but it is severe enough for Washington to move quickly. The US State Department added that when there are credible threats, it doesn’t shy away from restricting where its citizens can go particularly hotels, malls, tourist areas, or restaurants that could be a no-brainer target.
The newest warning advises Americans in Pakistan to shun crowded places, maintain a low profile, and exercise heightened vigilance in areas favored by tourists and expats.
Karachi Already on High-Risk Radar
This alert isn’t new. The US has had a travel warning up for Pakistan for some time now, advising Americans to reconsider traveling at all. Karachi specifically has long had issues with gang warfare, extremist activity, and political instability. Certain neighborhoods such as Lyari and Malir are hot beds of trouble.
Other nations, too, recommend steering clear of Karachi altogether, unless absolutely unavoidable. And with the city’s background of hotel attacks such as the 2008 Marriott bombing in Islamabad the apprehension isn’t misplaced.
What Happens Next?
For the time being, US personnel will steer clear of the city’s fancy hotels and may be subject to stricter security regulations when they’re on the move. Military escorts, armored cars, and restricted routes may enter the equation if things get ugly.
For Americans in Pakistan and for anyone considering a trip there the message is simple: remain vigilant, remain informed, and think twice about your destination.
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