PESHAWAR: The United States has announced the phased closure of its Consulate General in Peshawar, citing the safety of personnel and efficient resource management.

A press release quoting the office of the spokesperson of the US Department of State, released by the US Consulate General in Peshawar, said the US Department of State is announcing the phased closure of the Consulate General. Responsibility for diplomatic engagement with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will transfer to the US Embassy in Islamabad.

“This decision reflects our commitment to the safety of our diplomatic personnel and efficient resource management,” the release said.

It further said: “While our physical presence in Peshawar is changing, the administration’s policy priorities in Pakistan remain steadfast.”

“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.

The Department, through the US Mission to Pakistan, remains dedicated to advancing the US-Pakistan relationship through our remaining diplomatic posts in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore,” the press release said, quoting the office of the spokesperson of the US Department of State.

Published in Dawn, May 7th, 2026