US Cancels Visa Appointments in Pakistan After Deadly Protests

US Cancels Visa Appointments in Pakistan after violent protests in several cities raised serious security concerns. The United States announced the suspension of visa and American Citizen Services on Monday, March 2.

The decision covers the US Embassy in Islamabad and consulates in Karachi and Lahore. The move came after demonstrations were reported near diplomatic buildings.

In a security alert issued on March 1, the US mission said it was closely monitoring protests in Karachi and Lahore. There were also calls for rallies outside the embassy in Islamabad and the consulate in Peshawar.

The alert confirmed that US government staff were told to limit their movements until further notice. The mission cited safety risks due to protest activity around its facilities.

The US Cancels Visa Appointments in Pakistan step applies to all scheduled services for March 2. Officials said the cancellation was necessary because of unrest near diplomatic sites.

American citizens in Pakistan were advised to follow local news updates. They were told to avoid large gatherings and stay alert in public places.

The mission also asked US nationals to update their Smart Traveler Enrollment Programme registration. This helps officials contact citizens in case of emergency.

The protests erupted in different cities after reports of a US strike that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei at his residence. Demonstrations quickly spread across the country.

According to reports, at least 23 people were killed in clashes nationwide. Ten deaths were reported outside the US consulate in Karachi, 11 in Skardu, and two in Islamabad.

Karachi Situation

In Karachi, large crowds gathered outside the US Consulate. Witnesses reported gunfire during clashes between protesters and security forces.

Police used tear gas to disperse the crowd. Some demonstrators tried to move towards the main gate of the consulate.

Lahore and Islamabad

In Lahore, hundreds of protesters assembled outside the US Consulate. Police also used tear gas after tensions increased.

In Islamabad, demonstrators attempted to march toward the US Embassy. Authorities had already placed heavy security and roadblocks around the diplomatic enclave.

Officials in Punjab and Islamabad later imposed Section 144. This order bans public gatherings and rallies to control the situation.

The US Cancels Visa Appointments in Pakistan decision will remain in effect until further notice. The US mission has not announced a new date for rescheduling services.