Ahsan Mughal
KARACHI/ISLAMABAD: The United States has ordered non-emergency government personnel and their family members to depart from its consulates in Karachi and Lahore, citing regional tensions and security risks, while confirming that the US Embassy in Islamabad remains fully operational.
In a statement, the US Embassy in Islamabad said the State Department had directed non-essential staff and families at the consulates in Karachi and Lahore to leave Pakistan. No such directive has been issued for the embassy in Islamabad, which continues normal operations.
The updated travel advisory reflects concerns over escalating hostilities between the United States and Iran since 28 February, warning of potential drone and missile threats and disruptions to commercial flights across the region. It also reiterated the persistent risk of terrorist violence in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, though attacks have also occurred in major cities including Karachi and Islamabad.
US authorities cautioned that extremists may target transportation hubs, hotels, markets, shopping centres, schools, hospitals, places of worship, government buildings and security installations without warning. The advisory further highlighted risks linked to public demonstrations, noting that participation in protests or even social media posts critical of the government or military could result in detention. Internet and mobile service disruptions during protests were also flagged.
The statement acknowledged limits on US consular assistance in certain regions. American officials face travel restrictions and often require special authorization and security escorts outside Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi. Assistance is particularly limited in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and areas near the Line of Control, which was designated a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” zone due to the threat of terrorism and potential armed conflict. Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were similarly classified because of kidnapping and militant activity.
US citizens were urged to remain vigilant, avoid large gatherings, vary travel routes, monitor local media, and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for emergency updates. The advisory also recommended maintaining valid travel documents and securing comprehensive travel insurance.
The announcement follows the extension of visa service closures at the US Embassy in Islamabad and consulates in Karachi and Lahore until 6 March, amid security concerns triggered by nationwide protests over the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during US and Israeli strikes. Officials said fresh visa appointment dates would be communicated in due course.
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