U.S. Orders Evacuation of Non-Essential Staff from Pakistan Consulates Amid Security Concerns

The United States has ordered the evacuation of non-essential staff and their families from its consulates in Lahore and Karachi, Pakistan, following heightened security concerns. According to Jin10, this decision comes in the wake of deadly protests triggered by the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader, which the U.S. claims has increased the risk of terrorist attacks. The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad issued a travel warning, stating that violent extremist groups have launched attacks within Pakistan. However, the status of staff in the capital remains unchanged. Local authorities reported that coordinated airstrikes by the U.S. and Israel last Sunday resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, sparking protests across major Pakistani cities and leading to at least 24 fatalities. Protesters attempted to storm the U.S. Consulate in Karachi and held demonstrations in Lahore and Islamabad, reflecting the volatile situation in the region.