US Embassy in Pakistan Suspends Visa and Consular Services Amid Protests

March 2, 2026

New Delhi: The United States Embassy in Islamabad on Monday cancelled all visa appointments and American Citizen Services at its mission, as well as at the US Consulates in Karachi and Lahore, citing security concerns. The suspension comes after violent protests swept across Pakistan following the reported assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in joint US–Israel strikes.

Protests Turn Violent Across Pakistan

Large gatherings of Shia demonstrators condemned Khamenei’s killing and targeted American diplomatic missions. Violent clashes erupted outside the US Consulate General in Karachi, the Lahore consulate, and near the US Embassy in Islamabad. Social media images showed shattered windows, damaged gates, and fires within consulate compounds.

Casualties and Property Damage

According to reports, at least 23 protesters were killed nationwide, including 10 near Karachi consulate, 11 in Skardu district of Gilgit-Baltistan, and two in Islamabad. In Skardu, demonstrators reportedly set a United Nations office on fire. Other buildings, including schools, police offices, and NGO offices, also suffered damage.

Authorities Respond to Unrest

Police and security forces deployed crowd-control measures to contain the violence. Curfews were imposed in Skardu, and the Pakistan Army was called in under Section 245 of the Pakistan Penal Code. The US Embassy advised American citizens in Pakistan to stay vigilant, avoid protest areas, and follow safety protocols.