The United States has ordered non-emergency personnel and their families to leave its consulates in Karachi and Lahore due to escalating security concerns. The US State Department confirmed the move on Wednesday, citing risks to the safety of staff in both cities. The decision comes amid the intensifying conflict between Israel, the United States, and Iran, which has increased tensions across the Middle East and its neighboring regions.
The US embassy in Islamabad emphasized that its operations remain unchanged. “There is no change to the status of the US Embassy in Islamabad,” the mission said in an official statement. However, the evacuation of consulate personnel underscores the growing threat environment in Pakistan, particularly following violent protests and regional instability.
Regional Conflict Sparks Local Unrest in Pakistan
The directive follows the ongoing war between Israel and the United States against Iran. Airstrikes from Tel Aviv and Washington targeted Iranian military sites, leading to retaliatory missile and drone strikes on US interests and bases across Gulf countries. Among those killed in the attacks were senior Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard vowed to retaliate, describing the strikes as a “great crime” that will not go unpunished.
In response, protests erupted across the world, including in Pakistan, where demonstrators carried black flags and shouted slogans against the United States and Israel. In Karachi, protesters breached the outer wall of the US consulate and vandalized property. During the incident, at least 11 people were killed amid firing at the scene. Reuters reported that US Marines fired on demonstrators during the storming of the consulate over the weekend, although it remains unclear whether any casualties were caused directly by their rounds or by local security personnel.
Visa Services Suspended Amid Security Concerns
In addition to the evacuation, the US Mission in Pakistan has suspended all visa operations and American Citizen Services (ACS) at its consulates in Karachi and Lahore, as well as the embassy in Islamabad. Initially, the cancellations affected appointments scheduled for March 2, but the suspension has now been extended through Friday, March 6. The embassy stated that routine visa services will remain halted until further notice. Applicants affected by the suspension will receive guidance on rescheduling appointments.
The evacuation and service suspensions highlight the US government’s caution amid regional instability. Officials have not disclosed additional security details, but the measures reflect the potential for violence spilling over into Pakistan. Analysts suggest that with tensions rising in the Middle East, diplomatic missions across the region could face increased risks, making contingency plans and staff evacuations essential.
