The United States Department of State has advised its citizens to reconsider traveling to Pakistan due to security concerns, citing risks of terrorism and potential armed conflict.
The latest “Level 3” travel advisory, issued by the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, warns that terrorist attacks can occur with little to no warning. Potential targets include transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist sites, schools, hospitals, places of worship, and government buildings.
According to the Global Terrorism Index 2025, Pakistan ranked as the world’s second-most terrorism-affected country in 2024, moving up from fourth place the previous year. The report highlighted a 45% increase in terrorism-related deaths, with fatalities rising from 748 in 2023 to 1,081 in 2024—one of the sharpest spikes globally. Additionally, terror incidents more than doubled, surging from 517 in 2023 to 1,099 in 2024, surpassing 1,000 attacks for the first time since the index was established.
Earlier this week, a terrorist assault on Bannu Cantonment in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa resulted in the deaths of five soldiers and 13 civilians. Security forces successfully neutralized all 16 attackers involved in the incident.
The State Department emphasized that Pakistan’s security situation remains unpredictable and can shift rapidly. While major cities, particularly Islamabad, have greater security measures in place, the advisory noted that responses to emergencies may vary depending on location.
Additionally, the US government cautioned its citizens that proximity to protests in Pakistan could attract scrutiny from authorities. It warned that American nationals have been detained for participating in demonstrations and for posting social media content perceived as critical of the Pakistani government.
The advisory further outlined travel precautions for US citizens in Pakistan, including:
- Monitoring local media for updates and adjusting plans accordingly.
- Varying travel routes and schedules.
- Remaining vigilant, especially in public spaces like markets, restaurants, religious sites, police stations, and government buildings.
- Avoiding large gatherings and demonstrations.
- Having independent evacuation plans that do not depend on US government aid.
- Keeping travel documents updated and readily available.
- Securing comprehensive medical insurance, including emergency medical evacuation coverage.
- Familiarizing themselves with local laws and regulations before traveling.
- Sharing essential documents, login details, and emergency contacts with family members.
- Establishing a communication plan with family, employers, or host organizations.
- Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security alerts and facilitate emergency assistance.
- Reviewing the Country Security Report for Pakistan and preparing contingency plans.
- Visiting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest travel health advisories.
‘Do Not Travel’ Advisory for Certain Areas
The travel advisory has been elevated to “Level 4” for Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and areas along the Line of Control (LoC) with India, explicitly warning American citizens against traveling to these regions.
The advisory highlights that assassination and kidnapping attempts are prevalent, with active terrorist groups frequently targeting civilians, security forces, and government offices.
The Global Terrorism Index data indicates that over 96% of terrorist attacks and related fatalities in Pakistan during 2024 occurred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, both of which border Afghanistan.
