Islamabad, March 3 (NationPress) In the wake of intensifying protests throughout Pakistan triggered by the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei in a US-Israeli operation, the US Embassy in Islamabad along with its consulates in Lahore and Karachi have temporarily halted their operations. This decision comes as officials attempt to manage widespread unrest that has resulted in at least 23 fatalities across the country.

The US Embassy in Islamabad announced via a post on X, stating, “In light of the current security circumstances, operations at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad and the Consulates General in Lahore and Karachi have been suspended, and all visa appointments are cancelled through Friday, March 6.”

As reported by The Express Tribune, the US Consulate General in Peshawar also ceased operations starting Monday due to safety issues and protests occurring near diplomatic facilities. All appointments for visa and American Citizen Services at the US embassy in Islamabad and consulates in Karachi and Lahore on March 2 were cancelled after demonstrators assembled near the locations.

A US security alert on March 1 highlighted the ongoing protests near the Lahore and Karachi consulates, as well as possible demonstrations outside the US embassy in Islamabad and the Peshawar consulate.

US personnel were advised to limit their movements, and American citizens in Pakistan were urged to remain vigilant, avoid large gatherings, stay updated with local news, and ensure their Smart Traveler Enrollment Program registration is current.

The protests ignited following Ayatollah Khamenei's killing, leading to nationwide upheaval. The violent clashes have resulted in at least 23 deaths, including 10 outside the US Consulate in Karachi, 11 in Skardu, and two in Islamabad.

In Karachi, protesters gathered outside the consulate, where witnesses reported gunfire. Hundreds rallied outside the consulate in Lahore, and clashes ensued as law enforcement utilized tear gas to disperse the crowd. In Islamabad, demonstrators attempted to approach the embassy despite roadblocks and heightened security measures.

Authorities in Punjab and Islamabad implemented Section 144, prohibiting public gatherings and protests, while key routes near the Karachi consulate remained closed for a second consecutive day due to security threats. The US Embassy reiterated that operations will only resume once the situation is stabilized and urged all American citizens in Pakistan to proceed with caution.