US Cancels Visa Appointments in Pakistan: The United States has suspended all visa and American Citizen Services appointments scheduled for March 2, 2026, at its embassy in Islamabad and consulates in Karachi and Lahore. This decision follows a series of protests and escalating security concerns across several Pakistani cities.
A security alert issued on March 1, 2026, by the US mission in Pakistan highlighted ongoing demonstrations at the consulates in Lahore and Karachi and warned of potential protests outside the US embassy in Islamabad and the consulate in Peshawar. US government personnel have been advised to limit their movements until further notice.
The alert also urged American citizens in Pakistan to remain vigilant, avoid large gatherings, and update their Smart Traveler Enrollment Programme registration. The decision to cancel appointments was driven by protest activities surrounding the diplomatic sites in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.
The protests erupted after the US killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei in a targeted strike at his residence. The nationwide unrest has resulted in at least 23 fatalities, including 10 deaths outside the US consulate in Karachi, 11 in Skardu, and two in Islamabad.
In response to the unrest, authorities in Punjab and Islamabad have imposed Section 144, banning public gatherings and rallies. The situation remains tense, with potential implications for US-Pakistan diplomatic relations in the coming weeks.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, March 3rd, 2026
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