The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, along with Consulate Generals in Lahore and Karachi, have temporarily suspended all visa operations through Friday, March 6th, citing the prevailing security situation. Affected applicants will receive instructions on how to reschedule their appointments.

This broader suspension follows an earlier decision on Sunday to cancel all U.S. visa and American Citizen Services (ACS) appointments for March 2nd at these locations. The mission had stated it was monitoring reports of demonstrations outside the U.S. Consulate General in Lahore and protests near the U.S. Consulate General in Karachi. Additionally, there were calls for further demonstrations at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad and the U.S. Consulate General in Peshawar.

As a precautionary measure, U.S. government personnel were instructed to limit their movements. U.S. citizens were advised to stay informed about local news and take personal security precautions, including being aware of their surroundings, avoiding large gatherings, and ensuring their STEP registration is up-to-date.

The security alert comes amidst protests that have occurred across Pakistan, reportedly in response to U.S. and Israeli strikes. Clashes were reported outside the U.S. Consulate in Karachi, resulting in fatalities and injuries. Demonstrations also took place in other major cities, leading to confrontations with law enforcement. Authorities in Islamabad implemented Section 144 and restricted access to the Red Zone. In Karachi, attempts to approach the U.S. Consulate were met with forceful dispersal by police.