US Embassy in Pakistan cancels visa services amid protests outside consulates

The United States Embassy in Islamabad has issued a security alert and cancelled all visa and American Citizen Services appointments for Monday amid protests at US diplomatic missions in several cities.

In a statement, the embassy said it is monitoring reports of demonstrations at the US Consulates General in Lahore and Karachi, along with calls for additional gatherings near the US Embassy in Islamabad and the US Consulate General in Peshawar.

Due to protest activity around the consulates in Karachi and Lahore and the embassy in Islamabad, all appointments for March 2 have been cancelled.

The advisory urged US citizens in Pakistan to follow local news, remain aware of their surroundings, avoid large crowds and ensure their registration with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is updated.

The alert follows violent clashes outside the US Consulate in Karachi on Sunday in which at least nine people were killed and more than 12 injured, according to rescue officials. The confrontation began when protesters attempted to enter the consulate premises, prompting a response from security personnel.

The unrest comes after Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in US and Israeli airstrikes, according to Iranian state television and statements from US and Israeli officials.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said peaceful protest is a constitutional right but warned that vandalism would not be tolerated. During a visit to Islamabad’s Red Zone and Diplomatic Enclave, he reviewed security arrangements and directed authorities to ensure strict protection of diplomatic missions.