The United States Embassy in Islamabad and American consulates across Pakistan have announced a big update for the green passport holders.
The embassy did not provide further details about the security concerns but said affected applicants would receive guidance on rescheduling their appointments.
“Due to the current security situation, the US Embassy in Islamabad and the Consulates General in Lahore and Karachi have cancelled all visa appointments through Friday, March 6,” the US Embassy posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Yesterday, the US suspended all routine services effective March 2, 2026, citing serious security concerns amid nationwide unrest.
The suspension applies not only to the Islamabad embassy but also to US consulates in Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar. All regular services, including visa appointments, passport processing, American citizen services, and routine consular assistance, have been halted until further notice.
Officials said a revised schedule will be announced later, leaving thousands of visa applicants and US citizens awaiting further guidance. The decision follows escalating tensions after reports of the martyrdom of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei triggered widespread protests across Pakistan.
Demonstrations were reported outside American diplomatic facilities in several cities, with clashes and casualties confirmed. Authorities cited growing security risks as the primary reason for temporarily shutting down operations to ensure the safety of diplomatic staff and visitors.
While routine services remain suspended, emergency services may still be available on a limited basis in genuine cases. The temporary closure is expected to affect travelers, students, businesses, and dual nationals across the country.
Chaos in Karachi as mob attacks US consulate after Khamenei’s death
Demonstrations broke out outside the United States Consulate after reports circulated about the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a strike reportedly carried out by the US and Israel.
A large number of protesters gathered near the consulate chanting slogans and expressing anger over the reported development. As tensions escalated police used tear gas and fired warning shots into the air to disperse the crowd and prevent the situation from spiraling out of control.
Authorities temporarily shut down roads linking Sultanabad to Mai Kolachi while traffic coming from Jinnah Bridge was diverted through I.I. Chundrigar Road to ease congestion and maintain security in the area.
Officials have advised citizens to avoid the vicinity until the situation stabilizes as law enforcement agencies remain deployed to ensure public safety and restore order.
