The United States Embassy in Islamabad and its Consulates General in Lahore and Karachi have suspended all routine visa services, cancelling appointments through Friday, March 6. The decision, announced via official social media channels and notices to applicants, cites the “current security situation” in the country.
Official Announcement and Immediate Impact
In a post on X, the US Embassy in Islamabad stated: “Due to the current security situation, the US Embassy in Islamabad and the Consulates General in Lahore and Karachi have cancelled all visa appointments through Friday, March 6.” The mission confirmed that affected applicants would receive guidance on rescheduling but provided no further details on the specific nature of the security threats.
Applicants have been advised to monitor official US mission channels for updates. This broader suspension follows an earlier cancellation of all visa and American Citizen Services appointments for March 2.
Context of Rising Tensions and Protests
The security alert is linked to widespread demonstrations across Pakistan. A US security alert dated March 1 noted the mission was monitoring reports of protests outside its consulates in Lahore and Karachi, with calls for additional demonstrations at its embassy in Islamabad and consulate in Peshawar.
The protests erupted in response to US and Israeli military actions that resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The unrest turned violent in several cities:
- In Karachi, demonstrators gathered outside the US Consulate, leading to clashes with police. Reports indicate at least 10 fatalities and 36 injuries.
- Authorities in Islamabad imposed Section 144, blocking routes to the diplomatic enclave.
- Protests and clashes with law enforcement were also reported in Lahore, Peshawar, and Quetta.
Precautionary Measures and Travel Advisory
As a precaution, US government personnel in Pakistan have been directed to restrict their movements until further notice. The mission has also advised US citizens in the country to:
- Monitor local news for developments.
- Avoid large crowds and gatherings.
- Maintain awareness of their surroundings.
- Ensure their registration with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is current.
The suspension of consular services underscores the heightened diplomatic and security tensions in the region, impacting hundreds of visa applicants and signaling a cautious stance by American diplomatic posts.
