Islamabad: The United States has announced the phased closure of its Consulate General in Peshawar, citing security concerns for diplomatic staff and efforts to improve resource management.
According to the US Department of State, responsibility for diplomatic engagement in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will now be handled by the US Embassy in Islamabad. The statement said the decision reflects a commitment to protecting personnel while maintaining efficient operations.
While the physical presence in Peshawar is being reduced, the US said it will continue diplomatic engagement with Pakistani stakeholders to promote economic ties, regional security and broader US interests. The embassies in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi will remain operational.
The closure follows a period of heightened security concerns in Pakistan, including unrest in March after US-Israeli strikes on Iran, which led to protests and clashes near the US Consulate in Karachi.
Earlier, Washington had also ordered non-emergency personnel to leave consulates in Lahore and Karachi due to safety risks.
The State Department has previously warned of threats from extremist groups operating in regions including Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as well as risks of attacks on public places and security sites.
The development comes amid broader regional tensions involving the US and Iran, though Washington has said its policy priorities in Pakistan remain unchanged despite the reduced presence in Peshawar.
