Osama killing: US issues worldwide travel alert

Washington, May 2: The United States today (May 2) issued a worldwide travel alert for its citizens, especially those living in Pakistan, soon after President Barack Obama announced that Al Qaeda leader Osama bin-Laden has been killed in an operation outside Islamabad.

"The US Department of State alerts US citizens travelling and residing abroad to the enhanced potential for anti-American violence given recent counter-terrorism activity in Pakistan," the travel alert said.

US forces killed bin Laden in a special operation in Abbottabad this morning.

Given the uncertainty and volatility of the current situation, US citizens in areas where recent events could cause anti-American violence are strongly urged to limit their travel outside of their homes and hotels and avoid mass gatherings and demonstrations, the alert said.

US citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times, the travel alert said.

The State Department said the US Embassy operations in affected areas will continue to the extent possible under the constraints of any evolving security situation.

"US government facilities worldwide remain at a heightened state of alert. These facilities may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture," it said.

"In those instances, US Embassies and Consulates will make every effort to provide emergency services to US citizens.US citizens abroad are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the nearest US Embassy or Consulate," the statement said.

PTI