U.S. Embassy in Pakistan closed

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, May 3 (UPI) -- The U.S. Embassy and consulates in Pakistan, where al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden was killed, have closed indefinitely except for emergency citizens' services.

The embassy in Islamabad warned U.S. citizens that there could be violent demonstrations over bin Laden's death at any time in areas of Pakistani cities "perceived as Western."

The announcement said the embassy and U.S. consular offices in Lahore, Karachi and Peshawar would be closed "except for emergency American Citizens Services."

"The Embassy will issue an updated Warden Message when the Embassy and Consulates General reopen for routine business," the announcement said.

The announcement, noting the "uncertainty and volatility of the current situation," urged U.S. citizens to limit travel outside of their homes and hotels and avoid large gatherings and demonstrations.

The announcement also said U.S. government facilities worldwide "remain at a heightened state of alert" and that the facilities "may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture."