In an official statement, the US Embassy said, “The Department of State ordered non-emergency US government employees and the family members of US government personnel from US Consulates Lahore and Karachi to leave Pakistan due to safety risks.”
However, officials confirmed there is no change in the status of the US Embassy in Islamabad. It will continue to operate as usual.
This decision comes at a time of rising tension in the Middle East. The war involving United States, Israel, and Iran has created anger across many countries. Tel Aviv launched attacks on Iran, and Tehran responded by firing missiles and drones at what it called “US interests and bases” in Gulf states.
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During the conflict, several senior Iranian leaders were killed, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Six US army personnel also lost their lives in the fighting.
Iranian officials warned that Khamenei’s martyrdom would change the course of events. The Revolutionary Guard promised revenge and declared that “this great crime will not go unpunished”.
After the news spread, protests broke out in many countries, including Pakistan. Demonstrators carried black flags and shouted “Down with America!” along with anti-Israel slogans.
In Karachi, protesters broke through the outer wall of the US consulate compound. Parts of the property were damaged. During the chaos, firing took place and at least 11 people were killed.
Earlier, Reuters reported that US Marines opened fire when protesters stormed the Karachi consulate. Two US officials said it was not clear whether the Marines’ bullets hit or killed anyone. They also said they did not know if private guards or local police also fired shots.
Meanwhile, the US Embassy in Islamabad and the consulates in Karachi and Lahore cancelled all visa services and American Citizen Services due to the unrest.
At first, appointments scheduled for March 2 were cancelled. Later, officials extended the suspension of routine visa services through March 6. Applicants were told they would receive instructions about rescheduling.
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Officials did not share full details about the security threat. But the sudden evacuation and visa suspension show that the situation is being taken very seriously.
The coming days will be important. If protests continue, more restrictions could follow. Many people are now watching closely to see how Pakistan handles security around foreign missions.
This situation shows how global wars can quickly affect local cities. Tensions far away can create fear and unrest at home. Calm decisions and strong security will be key in the days ahead.
