The US Mission to Pakistan has announced that all appointments for visas and American Citizen Services are cancelled for today at the US Embassy in Islamabad as well as the US Consulates General in Karachi and Lahore.

“US government personnel have been directed to restrict their movements until further notice,” the statement said.

It advised US citizens in Pakistan to “monitor local news, observe good personal security practices, including being aware of your surroundings, avoiding large crowds, and ensuring your STEP registration is up to date”.

Additionally, it advised US citizens to keep a “low profile”, cooperate with police, and monitor local media for updates regarding appointments.