US embassy warns of security threat to Pakistani hotel in Peshawar, urges caution

The picture posted on Google Search in November 2024 shows external view of Serena Hotel in Peshawar, Pakistan. (Google Search)

• Serena is part of a luxury hotel chain frequented by foreign visitors, government officials
• Peshawar and other parts of KP have long been vulnerable to militant and extremist violence

PESHAWAR: The United States Embassy in Pakistan issued a security alert on Wednesday, warning of a potential threat to the Serena Hotel in Peshawar and advising American citizens to avoid the area until December 16.
The embassy said it had received credible security information and instructed US personnel to steer clear of the hotel, located on Khyber Road near the Peshawar Golf Club in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
“US citizens are encouraged to avoid the hotel and the area around it during this period and reconsider travel plans,” the alert said.
The advisory also reminded American citizens of the existing “Do Not Travel” warning for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province due to the persistent threat of militant violence, last updated on September 10.
The US mission outlined several actions for its citizens to enhance their safety, including leaving the vicinity of the hotel if found there unexpectedly, reviewing personal security plans, monitoring local media for updates and cooperating with authorities.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a province bordering Afghanistan, has experienced a surge in militant activity in recent months, with security officials regularly warning of threats to public spaces and high-profile locations.
Pakistani authorities have yet to comment on the nature of the threat or any measures being taken to secure the area.
The Serena Hotel, part of a luxury hotel chain, is frequented by foreign visitors and government officials, making it a high-profile target in a region with ongoing security challenges.
The latest warning underscores persistent concerns about safety in Pakistan’s volatile northwestern region, which has long been a focal point of militant operations and has also witnessed sectarian clashes in recent months.