Pakistan: Heightened security likely near the French Embassy in Islamabad through March 18 following attempted attack

Event

Authorities will likely maintain heightened security near the French Embassy in Islamabad through March 18 following a security incident. Police arrested an armed individual near the embassy earlier in the day. The suspect claimed he intended to attack the embassy due to alleged blasphemous cartoons printed in France, as well as President Emmanual Macron’s refusal to condemn the cartoons outright. Some media sources reported gunshots near the embassy, though no casualties have been reported.

Security forces will likely remain deployed near the embassy in the coming hours. Officials may close roads and set up checkpoints near the building. Localized transport disruptions are possible.

Advice

Exercise caution in the area. Carry personal identification documents. Heed all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time in the area. Reconfirm appointments in the area.