US mission in Pakistan restricts staff movement ahead of large religious processions

The United States Embassy Islamabad and the United States Consulate General Lahore, United States Consulate General Karachi, and United States Consulate General Peshawar said on Monday they are monitoring planned large-scale religious processions across Pakistan.

According to an advisory, beginning March 10 at 12:00 p.m., the movement of all US personnel will be restricted due to security considerations.

The mission warned that large crowds and traffic congestion are expected during the processions. Authorities are also likely to deploy additional security measures, including increased checkpoints and precautionary security presence. The advisory noted that disruptions to local mobile and internet networks could occur in some areas.

Officials said the processions may cause traffic delays and detours because of road closures or blockages in areas where the events take place. The likelihood, duration and severity of any related protests remain unknown.

The US mission advised American citizens to avoid large gatherings and remain aware of their surroundings, warning that rallies, processions and protests can change rapidly and even peaceful events can turn violent.

The United States Consulate General Lahore and the United States Consulate General Karachi will continue to suspend all consular services, while the United States Embassy Islamabad will continue providing services to US citizens. Individuals with scheduled appointments will be contacted if there are any changes and have been advised to monitor their email for updates.

The advisory also urged US citizens to avoid large public gatherings, exercise caution if they find themselves near demonstrations, review personal security plans, monitor local media for updates, keep a low profile, carry identification and cooperate with law enforcement authorities.

For assistance, the embassy and consulates advised citizens to contact the US mission in Pakistan or the United States Department of State consular affairs helplines.