The U.S. Department of State has restricted American officials and employees from staying at luxury hotels and visiting tourist sites in Karachi, Pakistan, due to emerging security threats.

According to a report by Reuters on Saturday, August 2, the U.S. Consulate in Karachi has received credible threats targeting hotels and tourist areas in the city.

In a security alert issued to U.S. citizens, the State Department advised Americans to avoid crowded areas and to keep a low profile while in the region.

The Department also urged U.S. nationals to reconsider travel to Pakistan due to the risk of terrorist attacks.

Previously, the United Kingdom had issued a similar advisory for its staff and citizens in Pakistan. Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, has experienced sporadic armed attacks and ongoing security concerns in the past. Threats against diplomatic missions and foreign nationals have long been a source of serious concern in the country.