Lahore: Following reports of drone strikes, downed drones, and potential airspace incursions near Lahore, the United States has advised its citizens in the region to either evacuate immediately or shelter in place.
In an official statement, the US Consulate General in Lahore urged American nationals to remain alert, have contingency evacuation plans independent of US government assistance, and ensure their travel documents are current and accessible. Citizens were also encouraged to monitor local media, carry valid identification, and cooperate fully with local authorities.
“All consulate personnel have been instructed to shelter-in-place due to escalating tensions and reports of aerial activity in the region,” the consulate stated. It also mentioned receiving preliminary reports of possible evacuations near Lahore’s main airport.
“US citizens in areas of active conflict should leave if safe to do so. If not, they are advised to shelter in place until the situation stabilizes,” the advisory added. Citizens were also encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time updates.
Tensions have surged after India reportedly launched a series of retaliatory airstrikes under Operation Sindoor in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 civilian lives. The Indian Air Force deployed Harpy drones, designed to target radar systems, which successfully neutralized Pakistan’s air defense setup in Lahore.
Sources indicate that India targeted nine terror camps associated with Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and Hizbul Mujahideen, four of which were located in Pakistan and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Precision strikes reportedly hit camps in Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sarjal, and Mehmoona Joya, as well as Barnala, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad in PoJK.
The Indian Armed Forces also reported intercepting attempted incursions using their S-400 Sudarshan Chakra air defense systems. Multiple aerial threats approaching cities in Northern and Western India were successfully neutralized, including in Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Pathankot, Chandigarh, and Bhuj, among others.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has intensified its shelling along the Line of Control (LoC), using mortars and heavy artillery in Kupwara, Baramulla, Uri, Poonch, Mendhar, and Rajouri. The shelling has tragically resulted in the deaths of 16 civilians, including three women and five children.
An official confirmation from the Indian government is awaited, while the situation remains tense with both sides maintaining high military alert levels.
