In response to violent protests across Pakistan, the United States Embassy in Islamabad and its Consulates General in Karachi and Lahore have cancelled all visa appointments and American Citizen Services scheduled for Monday, March 2, 2026. The decision comes as security concerns mount around diplomatic missions following clashes between protesters and law enforcement and widespread demonstrations in major cities.
Security Alert and Cancellation of Services
On March 1, the US Mission in Pakistan issued a security alert, announcing that all visa and consular appointments, including American Citizen Services such as passport renewals and notarial services, are cancelled for March 2 at the US Embassy in Islamabad and consulates in Karachi and Lahore. The advisory, posted on the Embassy’s X account, also stated that US personnel have been instructed to restrict their movements until further notice.
The alert warns American citizens in Pakistan to monitor local news, avoid large crowds, stay aware of their surroundings, and ensure their Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) information is up to date for security updates.
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Protests Turn Violent Across Cities
The embassy’s decision followed widespread demonstrations across the country that began on March 1, 2026, after news of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s assassination in a series of United States and Israeli airstrikes. Supporters of the Iranian leader took to the streets, expressing outrage with anti-US and anti-Israel slogans.
In Karachi, hundreds of protesters attempted to storm the US Consulate General, breaching the outer wall in some areas and smashing windows and gate structures. Clashes with police and paramilitary forces intensified, with security personnel using tear gas and, according to multiple reports, live fire against the crowd. At least 23 people were reportedly killed and over 120 injured in these confrontations, making it one of the deadliest protest episodes in recent Pakistani history.
Similar demonstrations erupted in Lahore and Islamabad, where crowds gathered outside US diplomatic sites. In Lahore, protests remained largely peaceful but drew heavy police presence, while in Islamabad, demonstrators attempted to march toward the US Embassy in the Diplomatic Enclave until being stopped by roadblocks and riot police.
Impact on Diplomatic Operations
The cancellation affects both non-immigrant and immigrant visa interviews, and routine services previously scheduled. According to travel and visa service platforms, although routine services are suspended, emergency services for US citizens may continue on a case-by-case basis. Appointment fees and visa application validity may be extended automatically once operations resume.
Security has been heightened around all diplomatic missions in Pakistan. Local law enforcement agencies and federal security forces have been deployed to reinforce the protective perimeter around the embassy and consulates.
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Government and Public Response
In response to the unrest, Pakistani authorities have invoked strict security measures in multiple cities and, in some cases, imposed restrictions on public gatherings to prevent further escalation. Interior officials have also reiterated that while peaceful protest remains a constitutional right, vandalism and attacks on institutions will be prosecuted under applicable laws.
The diplomatic missions have urged citizens and foreigners alike to avoid protest areas, follow official guidance, and verify information through embassy channels as the situation evolves.
