The United States Embassy and its consulates in Karachi and Lahore on Monday cancelled all US visa and American Citizen Services appointments scheduled for March 2, citing ongoing protest activity and security concerns across the country. The missions advised US nationals to monitor local news and follow safety precautions as the situation evolves.
In a security alert issued on March 1, the mission said it was tracking reports of demonstrations outside the US Consulate General in Lahore and violent protests at the US Consulate in Karachi, as well as calls for further demonstrations at the US Embassy in Islamabad and the US Consulate in Peshawar. US government personnel have been directed to restrict their movements until further notice.
The advisory urged American citizens in Pakistan to stay aware of their surroundings, avoid large crowds, and ensure they have up‑to‑date STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) registrations to receive security updates. It also reminded travellers and residents to keep identification on hand and follow instructions from local authorities.
The cancellations come amid widespread protests across major Pakistani cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar and Quetta, triggered by US and Israeli military actions that reportedly killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader. Demonstrations have at times escalated into violent clashes between protesters and law enforcement, particularly near the US Consulate in Karachi, where confrontations resulted in multiple casualties.
Authorities described the unrest as volatile, prompting heightened security measures and mobility restrictions around diplomatic missions. The embassy’s decision to suspend visa and American citizen services appointments reflects broader concerns over public safety and the unpredictable nature of the protests.