US, UK, Canada Warns About Terrorism, Violence, Kidnapping In Pakistan

The US, UK & Canada have issued travel advisories to their citizens in Pakistan about the risks of terrorism, civil unrest, sectarian violence, and kidnapping.

ARY News reported that the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada have issued fresh travel warnings for their citizens due to the political unrest in Pakistan following the incarceration of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

According to ANI, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) arrested Imran Khan, the chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), on corruption allegations related to the Al-Qadir Trust. 

This prompted nationwide protests by PTI supporters who asked for his immediate release from jail.

The extensive protests prompted the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom to issue travel advisories for their citizens and embassy personnel.

The US Embassy has issued an evacuation advisory for U.S. citizens traveling to Pakistan.

The most recent advisory issued by the U.S. Embassy stated, “The U.S. Embassy continues to track earlier reports regarding clashes between protesters and police in Islamabad, as well as sporadic demonstrations taking place or planned elsewhere in Pakistan.”

A consular meeting set for May 10 has been rescheduled by the US Embassy in Islamabad because of “political traffic delays and prohibitions.” 

Citizens of the United States have been warned to be extra vigilant and avoid large gatherings.

The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) of the United Kingdom has advised its citizens to avoid political demonstrations, congested public spaces, and events, and to keep their plans flexible. The FCDO has also recommended keeping abreast of local news reports.

According to the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, public demonstrations are commonplace in Pakistan. 

You should stay current on local news. Protests may take place with little to no warning, and while the majority are typically peaceful, they can rapidly turn violent and escalate.”

In the meantime, the Canadian government advised its citizens and diplomatic personnel to exercise extreme caution in Pakistan due to the “uncertain security situation.” 

In addition, it stated, “There is an imminent risk of terrorism, riots, sectarian violence, and kidnapping.”

In response to Imran Khan’s arrest, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that the United States takes no position on any particular political candidate or party and called for the upholding of democratic principles.

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In a press briefing, Karine Jean-Pierre stated, “The United States does not favor one political contender or party over another. We demand worldwide respect for the values of democracy and the rule of law.”

Meanwhile, British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly emphasized, “We desire a peaceful democracy in that nation.” We seek respect for the rule of law.”