The U.S. Consulate General in Lahore has instructed its staff to seek shelter in safe locations. The U.S. State Department reported on Thursday that alerts were issued due to reports of drone explosions and possible airspace intrusions in and around Lahore.
According to a statement on the consulate’s website, some areas near Lahore’s main airport are being evacuated by authorities.
The U.S. Embassy has also advised American citizens in conflict-prone areas to leave if possible, or otherwise take shelter in a secure place.
This action comes as Pakistan claimed it shot down 25 drones sent from India. Meanwhile, India stated it had neutralized attempted attacks by Pakistan using drones and missiles targeting military installations.
The escalation follows a terrorist attack in India-administered Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22, which killed 26 tourists. India has blamed Pakistan for the attack, a claim Pakistan has denied. In retaliation, India carried out airstrikes inside Pakistan at midnight yesterday.