US mission in Islamabad eases staff movement curbs after India-Pakistan ceasefire
ISLAMABAD: The United States eased movement restrictions on its diplomatic personnel in Pakistan on Saturday, following a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan that brought a pause to days of cross-border military exchanges.
The conflict was sparked by a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir last month that killed 26 tourists, with New Delhi blaming Pakistan for the incident despite Islamabad's denial of the allegation.
India launched missile strikes on what it said were 'terrorist camps,' prompting Pakistan to respond with attacks on Indian military targets.
A ceasefire brokered by Washington was announced Saturday afternoon by President Donald Trump, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio saying both sides had agreed to hold talks at a neutral venue.
'Movement restrictions on US government personnel in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore have been adjusted to allow travel within city limits,' the US mission said in a security alert.
However, it reiterated its 'Do Not Travel' advisory for areas near the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control, citing 'terrorism' and the risk of 'armed conflict.'
It also maintained a 'Reconsider Travel' advisory for Pakistan more broadly, reflecting long-standing US concerns about militant violence and limited consular access in parts of the country.
Earlier this year, the US State Department had cited Pakistan's deteriorating security conditions, especially in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces.
In its recent alert, the US embassy advised citizens in Pakistan to review their security plans and stay alert.
It noted that flight availability remained fluid in Pakistan, urging travelers to confirm schedules with their airlines.
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