US to Gradually Close Peshawar Consulate, Shift Duties to Islamabad

May 6, 2026

60 min

May 6, 2026 12:31

US announces phased closure of Peshawar consulate

## Closure Announcement

The United States has decided to gradually close its consulate in Peshawar, Pakistan. This move will see diplomatic responsibilities for the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region transferred to the US Embassy in Islamabad. The decision was announced by the State Department, emphasizing the importance of staff safety and efficient resource management.

## Diplomatic Engagement

Despite the closure, the US remains committed to its policy priorities in Pakistan. The State Department assured that engagement with officials and communities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will continue to foster economic ties, promote regional security, and advance bilateral interests.

## Operational Adjustments

The US Mission to Pakistan will maintain its operations through its diplomatic posts in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. The closure of the Peshawar consulate is expected to save approximately $7.5 million annually. This decision aligns with previous considerations under the Trump administration to streamline federal agencies and overseas operations.

## Context and Background

The closure is not linked to recent regional tensions, although US diplomatic operations in Pakistan have faced challenges. Earlier this year, protests erupted in response to US-Israeli military actions in Iran, impacting US facilities in Pakistan. However, the State Department clarified that the consulate's closure is unrelated to these events.

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