MEXICO CITY: The United States has closed indefinitely its consulate in the violence-hit Mexican city of Ciudad Juarez while it carries out a "security review," officials said Friday.

"The US consulate general in Ciudad Juarez has closed to review its security posture," said a statement released by the US embassy in Mexico City.

"The facility will be closed all day on Friday, July 30, and remain closed until the security review is completed."

US officials added: "American citizens are advised avoid the area around the consulate general until it reopens." - AFP/jm