Pakistan perils

The Department of State on Nov. 21 warned US citizens against nonessential travel to Pakistan. Terrorists and their sympathizers have demonstrated their willingness and capability to attack targets where Westerners are known to congregate or visit.

Sectarian and extremist violence has resulted in fatal bomb attacks in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Lahore and other Pakistani cities in 2006, 2007 and 2008. Since 2007, over 1,000 bombings have killed more than 1,000 people throughout Pakistan and injured many more.

In 2007 and 2008, several Americans throughout Pakistan were kidnapped for ransom or for personal reasons.

Rallies, demonstrations and processions occur regularly on very short notice. Avoid large gatherings.