The United States has ordered non-essential staff and their families to leave its consulates in Karachi and Lahore due to growing security concerns, according to the US State Department. The advisory, issued on March 3, 2026, instructs non-emergency US government personnel to depart Pakistan while the US Embassy in Islamabad continues its operations as usual. Officials described the move as a precautionary step aimed at ensuring the safety of diplomatic staff during a period of heightened regional tensions.
The decision comes at a time when the Middle East is witnessing significant unrest, particularly following escalating tensions linked to the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict. Regional instability has raised security concerns for diplomatic missions and foreign personnel across several countries. In Pakistan, tensions intensified after protests erupted outside the US Consulate in Karachi on Sunday.
According to reports, demonstrators gathered near the consulate following the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The protest reportedly turned violent when some participants attempted to breach the consulate’s security perimeter. Security forces intervened to control the situation, leading to clashes that resulted in multiple casualties and injuries.
Authorities later restored order in the area, but the incident prompted renewed concerns over the safety of diplomatic facilities and foreign nationals. In response, the United States decided to temporarily reduce the presence of non-essential staff in Karachi and Lahore until the situation stabilizes.
Despite the precautionary measures, US officials emphasized that diplomatic engagement with Pakistan continues and that the embassy in Islamabad remains fully operational, providing regular services and maintaining communication with Pakistani authorities during the ongoing regional developments.
