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US to shut down Peshawar consulate for ‘security reasons’

May 07, 2026
Police and Paramilitary vehicles stand outside the US Consulate General in Karachi on March 2, 2026. — Reuters
Police and Paramilitary vehicles stand outside the US Consulate General in Karachi on March 2, 2026. — Reuters

ISLAMABAD: The United States has announced to close its Consulate General in Peshawar citing security reasons. It, however, did not specify a timeline for completing the process.

In a statement on Tuesday, the State Department said the US Embassy in Islamabad would be responsible for diplomatic engagement with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. “This decision [phased closure of the US consulate in Peshawar] reflects our commitment to the safety of our diplomatic personnel and efficient resource management,” it said.

The State Department said while the US diplomatic physical presence in Peshawar was changing, its policy priorities in Pakistan remained steadfast. It added that the US administration would continue to engage meaningfully with the people and officials of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to foster economic ties, promote regional security and advance the interests of American people.

The department said it through the US Mission to Pakistan, remained dedicated to advancing the US-Pakistan relationship through its remaining diplomatic posts in Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore.