State Department Cites Safety Risks in Karachi and Lahore
The United States has ordered non-emergency U.S. government personnel and the families of consular staff to leave its diplomatic posts in Karachi and Lahore, Pakistan. The directive, issued by the U.S. State Department on Wednesday, cites heightened safety and security risks. The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad confirmed the order in a public statement, emphasizing that the status of the main embassy in the capital remains unchanged.
Regional Conflict Sparks Violent Protests
The evacuation order follows a weekend of violent protests in Pakistan, triggered by the escalating U.S.-Israel military campaign against Iran. The conflict, which has seen airstrikes and missile exchanges across the Gulf, resulted in the reported deaths of senior Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In response, protests erupted globally, with demonstrators in Karachi breaching the outer wall of the U.S. Consulate compound, vandalizing property, and clashing with security forces. At least 11 people were killed during the incident.
Marines Reportedly Fired During Consulate Storming
Initial reports from U.S. officials, cited by Reuters, indicate that U.S. Marines opened fire on demonstrators who stormed the Karachi consulate. The officials stated it was unclear whether the rounds fired by Marines caused any casualties or if other security personnel at the mission also discharged their weapons. The incident represents a significant escalation in the security situation for U.S. diplomatic facilities in the country.
Visa Services Suspended Indefinitely
In a related development, the U.S. Mission in Pakistan has suspended all visa and American Citizen Services appointments. The cancellations, initially for March 2, have been extended through at least Friday, March 6. A notice to applicants stated that routine visa services are suspended, with guidance on rescheduling to be provided later. Officials did not elaborate on the specific security concerns but linked the suspension to the recent violent protests.
Broader Regional Tensions
The security measures in Pakistan occur against a backdrop of intense regional warfare. Iranian officials have vowed severe retaliation for the loss of their leadership, while the conflict continues to destabilize the wider Middle East. The U.S. decision to withdraw non-essential staff from two of its largest consulates underscores the immediate perceived threat to American personnel and interests in Pakistan.
