U.S. Mission to Pakistan Issues Security Alert Amidst Protests
The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad has issued a security alert for U.S. Citizens in Pakistan, citing possible protests throughout the country on Friday, March 6, 2026. The alert comes after an attack on the U.S. Consulate General in Karachi on March 1, 2026, carried out by armed Shia Muslim protestors following strikes on Iran by the U.S. And Israel, which resulted in the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Security Measures and Travel Advisories
Due to the potential for unrest, the movements of all U.S. Personnel in Pakistan have been limited. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad will not be open for routine services on March 6, but staff will remain available for emergency services. U.S. Citizens are advised to:
- Avoid areas of large public gatherings.
- Review personal security plans.
- Monitor local news for updates.
- Keep a low profile.
- Carry identification and cooperate with police.
- Ensure STEP registration is up to date.
Recent Attack on U.S. Consulate in Karachi
On March 1, 2026, the U.S. Consulate General in Karachi was targeted by armed protestors. The attack involved arson, vandalism, and stone-throwing, resulting in 10–16 deaths and over 60 injuries. The protests were a direct response to the U.S. And Israeli strikes on Iran and the death of Ali Khamenei. More information on the Karachi attack is available here.
Contact Information for U.S. Citizens
U.S. Citizens in Pakistan requiring assistance can contact the following:
- U.S. Embassy Islamabad, Pakistan: +(92) (51) 201 4000, ACSIslamabad@state.gov
- U.S. Consulate General, Karachi: +(92) (21) 3527 5000, ACSKarachi@state.gov
- U.S. Consulate General, Lahore: +(92) (42) 3603 4000, ACSLahore@state.gov
- U.S. Department of State – Consular Affairs: +(1) 888-407-4747 or +(1) 202-501-4444
Additional Resources
U.S. Citizens are encouraged to monitor local media and follow the U.S. Embassy Pakistan on Facebook and X for the latest updates.