US Announces Phased Closure of Peshawar Consulate, Shifts Operations to Islamabad

The United States State Department has announced the phased closure of its consulate in Peshawar, transferring its operations to the US Embassy in Islamabad, officials confirmed on Wednesday.

In a statement, the department said responsibility for diplomatic engagement with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would now be handled by the embassy in Islamabad. “This decision reflects our commitment to the safety of our diplomatic personnel and efficient resource management,” the statement noted.

Despite the change in physical presence, the US emphasized that its policy priorities in Pakistan remain unchanged. “We will continue to engage meaningfully with the people and officials of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to foster economic ties, promote regional security, and advance the interests of the American people,” it added.

The State Department reiterated that through the US Mission to Pakistan, it remains committed to strengthening bilateral relations via its remaining diplomatic posts in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore.