The United States on Thursday warned Americans in Pakistan that US citizens and interests in Karachi may be targeted for attacks during a general strike this week called to protest recent sectarian violence.
The State Department, through the US consulate in Karachi, said US diplomats had been ordered to leave hotels in Karachi for the duration of Friday's strike as a precaution and urged Americans there to limit their movements.
Britain's Foreign Office revised its travel advice for Pakistan on Thursday, urging visitors to be vigilant when visiting Karachi.
"If visiting Karachi, you should take particular care, avoid travelling on foot and travel in vehicles only between secure, well-guarded premises. You should keep away from all places of worship in Karachi," it said.