The United States temporarily suspended consular services at its embassy in Brazil on Friday amid security concerns just two days before the country’s presidential election. The U.S. embassy in Brasília advised American citizens against visiting diplomatic facilities, including in emergency situations, recommending that they seek assistance remotely.

The embassy did not specify the expected duration of the suspension or provide detailed reasons for the decision. However, a U.S. government official cited by Brazilian media suggested a possible bomb threat as a factor behind the move. It was not immediately clear whether the threat targeted the U.S. embassy specifically or another site in the Brazilian capital.

In response to the heightened security situation, the Australian embassy in Brasília also temporarily closed on Friday, citing similar concerns. Australian authorities referred to the U.S. security alert and urged their nationals to avoid the U.S. embassy, consulates, and nearby areas.

Brazil is scheduled to hold its presidential election on Sunday, an event that has drawn significant domestic and international attention amid a polarized political climate. Security measures around diplomatic missions are frequently tightened during such periods to mitigate risks associated with potential unrest or threats.

Officials from both the United States and Australia have so far not provided additional details regarding the nature of the security alerts or the specific threats they may be responding to. Local authorities have yet to confirm the existence or source of any bomb threat related to the diplomatic closures.

The temporary suspension of consular services by the United States comes at a crucial moment, as many Brazilian-American citizens seek to participate in the election process or require urgent consular support. The embassy has advised the public to remain vigilant and to follow updates through official channels.