Nov. 28 (Bloomberg) -- The U.S. advised its citizens to defer travel to Mumbai for ``at least the next 48 to 72 hours'' because of the fluid situation in the city following terrorist attacks that left 119 people dead.

``Americans throughout India should be vigilant about security at all times,'' the U.S. embassy in New Delhi said in a travel advisory on its Web site yesterday.

Eight foreigners were among those killed in coordinated shootings and explosions across India's financial hub that started late Nov. 26. Commandos hunted for militants who stormed the luxury Taj Mahal Palace and Tower hotel and the Oberoi Trident complex and took hostages.

Media reports indicate Americans have been targeted, according to the travel advisory. U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad were urged to register with the nearest embassy or consulate to make it easier to contact them in case of emergency.

All hostages were freed from the Taj late yesterday and at least 15 people were freed from the Oberoi, police said. It wasn't clear whether any guests or staff remained inside that hotel.

To contact the reporter on this story: John Chacko in New Delhi at jchacko@bloomberg.net.

Last Updated: November 27, 2008 22:09 EST