Australian High Commission to remain suspended for two days

ISLAMABAD: The official statement from Australian High Commissioner Timothy Kane announced the temporary closure of the Australian High Commission in Islamabad, which will begin on April 21 and end on April 22, 2026.

The High Commission announced through its message on X (formerly Twitter) that its offices will stay closed throughout Monday and Tuesday until normal operations begin on April 22.

The High Commission will stop all of its regular consular and visa operations during the closure period. Visitors and applicants should develop their visiting plans because they must not enter the facility on the designated dates.

The Australian High Commission operates between Monday and Friday to deliver consular assistance and visa services, and diplomatic services to both Australian nationals and Pakistani stakeholders.

The closure takes effect during a time when all diplomatic activities in Islamabad require additional security measures because of the upcoming US-Iran negotiations, which Pakistan will host.

Authorities have enforced strict movement controls throughout the capital’s Red Zone and diplomatic enclave, which contains most foreign missions, including the Australian High Commission.

Pakistan has become a crucial mediator in the ongoing crisis between Washington and Tehran after the first round of high-level talks occurred earlier this month. The Islamabad Talks negotiations seek to establish a stable ceasefire that prevents further violence in the region.