The United States embassy in Islamabad has announced the cancellation of all visa appointments this week, citing the “current security situation” in Pakistan. The suspension, which also applies to the consulates in Lahore and Karachi, will remain in effect until Friday, March 6.
In a statement, the embassy said the decision was taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of applicants and staff.
The move comes after violent demonstrations erupted outside the US consulate in Karachi on Sunday, where at least 10 people were reported killed when security personnel opened fire on protesters.
The unrest followed reports of the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in joint US-Israeli strikes, which triggered widespread anger across the region.
The cancellation of visa services is expected to affect thousands of applicants, including students, business travelers, and families seeking reunification.
Many had scheduled appointments weeks in advance, and the embassy has not yet clarified whether these will be rescheduled or require new bookings.
Security has been tightened around US diplomatic missions in Pakistan, with additional personnel deployed to guard facilities in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. Roads leading to the embassies and consulates have been blocked, and local authorities have urged citizens to avoid the areas until further notice.
The suspension highlights the growing regional fallout from the escalating conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran. Pakistan, which has historically maintained a delicate balance in its foreign policy, now finds itself grappling with domestic unrest fueled by anger over events in the Middle East.
Observers warn that the cancellation of visa services could strain people-to-people ties between Pakistan and the United States.
Students hoping to begin studies in American universities, business leaders planning trade visits, and families awaiting reunification will all face delays. The embassy has urged applicants to monitor its official website and communication channels for updates.
For now, the priority remains security. With tensions running high and protests continuing, the US has signaled that safeguarding its personnel and facilities in Pakistan is paramount. Whether visa services resume smoothly after March 6 will depend on how the situation evolves in the coming days.
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