ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The US Embassy in Islamabad has announced the suspension of all visa services until March 6 due to the security situation.
According to the US Embassy, this decision will apply to the embassy in Islamabad as well as the US consulates in Lahore and Karachi. This had suspended these services until March 2, but now it has been extended further.
It may be recalled that on Sunday, 10 people were killed and 35 were injured when security personnel opened fire during a riot at the US Consulate in Karachi. Protesters in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi surrounded the consulates after the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
US Embassy Issues Security Advisory
Earlier, the United States (US) Embassy in Pakistan issued a security advisory after reports of ongoing demonstrations at the U.S. Consulate General Lahore and violent protests at the U.S. Consulate General Karachi.
In response to the developing situation, US government personnel in Pakistan have been directed to restrict their movements until further notice.
The advisory urges US citizens in Pakistan to closely monitor local news and maintain heightened personal security. Citizens have been advised to remain aware of their surroundings, avoid large gatherings, and ensure their enrollment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program is up to date.
Due to protest activity around US diplomatic missions in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, all appointments for US visas and American Citizen Services have been cancelled for Sunday, March 2, according to the notice.
US citizens have been advised to avoid areas of large public gatherings, review and update their personal security plans, closely monitor local media for developments, and regularly check their email and official channels for updates regarding appointments at all diplomatic locations.
They have also been urged to maintain a low profile, remain alert to their surroundings, carry proper identification at all times, and cooperate fully with local law enforcement authorities.
