US Ambassador says J&K important part of India, signals review of travel advisory
US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor has described Jammu and Kashmir as an important part of India and indicated that the United States could reconsider its travel advisory for the region.
During his first visit to Jammu and Kashmir, Gor spoke in Srinagar about the possibility of reviewing Washington’s current travel guidance. Such a change could be significant for the region’s tourism industry, which has been affected by foreign travel warnings.
The US State Department currently places most of Jammu and Kashmir, excluding eastern Ladakh and Leh, under its highest Level 4 travel warning. The advisory cites concerns over terrorism and civil unrest and specifically mentions places including Srinagar, Gulmarg and Pahalgam.
Gor’s visit comes amid continued efforts to rebuild tourism following heightened security concerns after the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent Operation Sindoor.
Tourism stakeholders have repeatedly sought changes to foreign advisories, arguing that such warnings can discourage international visitors and affect families whose livelihoods depend on tourism.
Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti had also urged the US ambassador to reconsider the advisory, particularly because of its impact on tourism-dependent communities. Gor’s latest comments have raised expectations that Washington may reassess its current guidance as the security situation develops.