ISLAMABAD: The United States embassy in Islamabad has issued a security warning to all American citizens in Pakistan, alerting them to “the continued potential danger...posed by the presence of al Qaeda, Taliban elements, and indigenous militant sectarian groups” in the country.

The message from the embassy advises US citizens to avoid crowds and public places, and “keep a low profile” during Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations (Aug 14) and Eid-ul-Fitr.

In the alert posted on its website, the embassy warns: “Terrorists may wish to take advantage of the upcoming Pakistan Independence Day celebrations (August 13 and 14) and Eid-ul-Fitr (approximately August 19, 20 and 21) to initiate attacks."

“It is especially important that US citizens and US Embassy personnel continue to maintain good situational awareness, avoid crowds and public places, and keep a low profile during this time,” adds the security alert.