US Orders Non-Emergency Staff to Leave Consulates in Karachi, Lahore

The United States has directed non-emergency government employees and family members at its consulates in Karachi and Lahore to depart Pakistan, citing security concerns. The order, issued by the US State Department, does not affect the status of the US Embassy in Islamabad, according to official statements.

Security Risks Prompt Departure

The US Mission in Pakistan announced that the decision was made due to safety risks. The updated travel advisory maintains Pakistan at Level 3, urging US citizens to reconsider travel to the country. The advisory highlights ongoing threats, including the risk of drone and missile attacks from Iran and significant disruptions to commercial flights, amid continuing conflict in the Middle East.

Reports indicate that the State Department's order applies specifically to the consulates in Karachi and Lahore. There is no mention of changes to the consulate in Peshawar in the latest advisory.

Regional Tensions and Recent Developments

Sources note that the updated advisory follows the escalation of hostilities between Iran, the US, and Israel since February 28. In response to these developments, the State Department has issued similar instructions for its personnel in several countries in the region.

On March 2, police and paramilitary vehicles were seen outside the US Consulate General in Karachi, a day after protests related to recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran. However, officials have not linked the departure order directly to these events.

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, the US Mission in Pakistan said in a statement.

The advisory does not indicate any change in the operational status of the US Embassy in Islamabad. The consulate in Peshawar is also not mentioned in the updated guidance.

Officials emphasize that the travel advisory remains at Level 3, citing risks from regional tensions and terrorism. The situation continues to be monitored, and further updates may be issued as necessary.