US directs non-emergency staff to leave Karachi and Lahore consulates

The United States has directed non-emergency government personnel and their family members to depart from its consulates in Karachi and Lahore, citing safety risks, while stating that operations at its embassy in Islamabad remain unchanged.

In a statement issued through the US mission in Pakistan, officials said the order applies to non-essential staff and eligible family members at the two consulates, reflecting heightened security concerns.

The decision comes amid wider regional escalation linked to the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran, with Islamabad also witnessing fallout in the form of protests and heightened tensions.

Geo News reported that protests in Pakistan intensified after developments related to Iran’s leadership, and that in Karachi, demonstrators breached the outer wall of the US consulate compound and caused damage. Firing during the incident resulted in fatalities, prompting further security measures around diplomatic facilities.

The US order is part of broader steps taken to reduce exposure to risk in the current environment, as authorities on both sides monitor the situation and adjust security arrangements.