The United States Embassy in Islamabad, along with its Consulates in Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar, have suspended all visa appointment services across Pakistan in response to widespread demonstrations that escalated into violence in several cities. These protests, which erupted over recent geopolitical tensions, have tragically claimed the lives of at least ten individuals and left numerous others injured, particularly in Karachi, Islamabad, and the Gilgit-Baltistan region.
In an official announcement shared on the social media platform X, the US Embassy in Islamabad confirmed the cancellation of all scheduled visa and American Citizen Services appointments for March 2. This directive applies not only to the embassy itself but also extends to the US Consulates General located in Karachi and Lahore. The decision reflects growing concerns over the safety of both diplomatic staff and the general public amid the unrest.
Alongside the suspension of services, the US diplomatic missions have issued a comprehensive security alert. The alert highlights ongoing demonstrations, including reports of violent clashes outside the US Consulate General in Karachi and continued protests near the consulate in Lahore. Furthermore, there are warnings about planned gatherings at the US Embassy in Islamabad and the Consulate General in Peshawar. In light of these developments, US government personnel have been instructed to limit their movements and remain indoors until further notice.
The embassy has also urged American citizens residing or traveling in Pakistan to stay vigilant by closely following local news updates and adopting stringent personal security measures. These precautions include maintaining heightened awareness of their surroundings, steering clear of large crowds, and ensuring their registration with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is current to facilitate timely communication.
The cancellation of all visa and American Citizen Services appointments for March 2 is directly linked to the volatile situation surrounding the US diplomatic missions. The embassy’s statement emphasized the importance of avoiding public gatherings, reviewing individual security plans, and cooperating fully with local authorities to ensure safety. Citizens were also reminded to carry valid identification at all times and keep a low profile during this period of unrest.
The protests were initially sparked by outrage over the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a strike attributed to US-Israel forces. Demonstrators gathered outside the US Consulate in Karachi, where security forces reportedly opened fire, resulting in the deaths and injuries. This tragic incident has further intensified tensions and underscored the fragile security environment faced by diplomatic missions in Pakistan at present.
