US embassy cancels visa, consular services amid ongoing protests in Pakistan

The US Embassy in Islamabad has issued a security alert amid ongoing demonstrations at consulates in different cities, while also cancelling appointments for US visas and American Citizen Services for Monday (today).

In an official statement, the embassy confirmed it is monitoring reports of ongoing demonstrations at the US Consulates General in Lahore and Karachi, as well as calls for additional gatherings near the US Embassy Islamabad and US Consulate General Peshawar.

“We advise US citizens in Pakistan to monitor local news, observe good personal security practices, including being aware of your surroundings, avoiding large crowds, and ensuring your STEP registration is up to date,” the embassy stated.

READ MORE: At least 10 dead, 38 injured outside US consulate in Karachi

Due to protest activity around the US Consulates General in Karachi and Lahore, and the US Embassy in Islamabad, the embassy stated that all appointments for US visas and American Citizen Services are cancelled for March 2.

The advisory has been issued as security remains high around diplomatic enclaves and consulates to prevent any potential disruption to daily operations or risks to personnel.

The development comes after at least nine people were killed and more than 12 others injured on Sunday in violent clashes that erupted between protesters and law enforcement personnel outside the US Consulate in Karachi, hours after Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the opening salvo of a massive US and Israeli attack.

The confrontation began when demonstrators attempted to enter the consulate premises, prompting security forces to respond, according to Rescue 1122 Sindh.

Iranian state television confirmed Khamenei’s death early Sunday, hours after US President Donald Trump declared that Khamenei died in the conflict that had defined his rule of Iran, and a senior Israeli official told Reuters his body had been found following US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran.

Meanwhile, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Sunday said peaceful protest is everyone’s right but vandalism under the guise of protest will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Naqvi said this in a statement during his visit to various areas of Islamabad to review the law and order situation. During his visit to the Red Zone, Diplomatic Enclave, and other key locations, the interior minister inspected security arrangements and issued directives to ensure foolproof security within the Diplomatic Enclave.

He emphasised that security arrangements must be comprehensive and complete in every respect, noting that the law will take its course against those who disrupt daily life.