The United States (US) Embassy in Pakistan has issued a security alert ahead of large religious processions expected across the country, warning that the movement of US government personnel will be restricted starting 12:00 pm on March 10.
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In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the embassy advised US citizens in Pakistan to avoid large crowds, demonstrations, and public gatherings due to potential security risks. Authorities cautioned that these events could result in road closures, traffic disruptions, and interruptions in mobile and internet services.
Attention U.S. Citizens: Security Alert
The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad and the U.S. Consulates General in Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar are monitoring planned large-scale religious processions across Pakistan. Beginning March 10 at 12:00 p.m., the movements of all U.S. personnel… pic.twitter.com/JPVybO2plC— U.S. Embassy Islamabad (@usembislamabad) March 9, 2026
The embassy confirmed that consular services at the US consulates in Karachi and Lahore will remain suspended during this period. However, citizen services in Islamabad will continue as usual. Americans were urged to remain vigilant, carry identification at all times, follow instructions from local authorities, and stay updated via local media.
Earlier, the embassy had canceled all visa appointments scheduled from March 9 to March 13. Both immigrant and non-immigrant applicants will be assigned new appointment dates through email, the embassy confirmed. Despite the suspension of routine consular services in Karachi and Lahore, emergency services for US citizens will continue without interruption.
The advisory reflects heightened concerns about safety during large-scale religious processions, which draw significant crowds across Pakistan. US officials emphasized that personal security should be a priority and urged citizens to exercise caution when traveling within the country.
Read More: US extends visa appointment cancellations in Pakistan until march 13
The embassy’s warning comes amid an increase in public gatherings across Pakistan, including processions and other ceremonial events. US nationals were reminded that even routine movement could be affected and that they should plan accordingly to avoid potential risks.