US issues 'Do Not Travel' advisory for J&K after Pahalgam terror attack

Washington: The United States has issued a 'Do Not Travel' advisory for Jammu and Kashmir, citing recent terror attacks and the potential for violent civil unrest in the region. The advisory, which was issued on Wednesday, follows the deadly terror attack in Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 23, where 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed in one of the most devastating attacks in the region since the 2019 Pulwama strike.

The US Department of State's updated travel advisory warns American citizens against traveling to Jammu and Kashmir due to the high risk of terrorist activities and civil unrest. The warning also specifically highlights the danger in areas near the India-Pakistan border, urging US citizens to stay clear of locations within 10 kilometers of the border due to the possibility of armed conflict.

"Terrorist attacks and violent civil unrest are possible in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir," the advisory states. "Do not travel to this state, except for visits to the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh. Violence occurs sporadically and is particularly common along the Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan. It also affects popular tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley, including Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam."

The attack has led to significant political fallout, with India suspending the Indus Water Treaty of 1960 and downgrading diplomatic ties with Pakistan, which includes expelling its military attaches. The advisory underscores the growing security concerns in the region, urging caution for all travelers.

With PTI inputs