US to phase out Peshawar consulate, shift duties to Islamabad

The US State Department announced the phased closure of its consulate in Peshawar, Pakistan, citing the safety of diplomatic personnel and the need for efficient resource management.

Diplomatic responsibilities for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will transfer to the US Embassy in Islamabad. The consulate currently employs 18 American officials and more than 80 Pakistani staff members, as per sources.

Why is the US closing the Peshawar consulate?

The State Department said the closure reflects its commitment to staff safety and efficient resource management. The decision is also expected to save around $7.5 million annually, according to the Associated Press.

Sources familiar with the matter said the closure had been under consideration for several years, including during earlier Trump administration efforts to streamline overseas operations and cut costs.

What will happen to consulate staff?

Staff will retain their positions for now, but some American officials are expected to be reassigned to the US Embassy in Islamabad. Others could face job losses once the closure is completed, according to sources speaking on condition of anonymity.

The consulate primarily handled political and economic affairs, public diplomacy, media outreach, exchange programs, the American Space initiative, grant monitoring, and facilitation of Pakistan-Afghanistan trade links.

The State Department said US diplomatic presence in Pakistan would continue through its remaining posts in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. It added that the administration's policy priorities in Pakistan "remain steadfast," with continued engagement focused on economic ties, regional security, and broader US interests.

What role has the Peshawar consulate played historically?

Located near the Afghan border, the Peshawar consulate has long served as the United States' closest diplomatic post to Afghanistan. It played a key operational and logistical role before, during, and after the US-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001.

The State Department informed Congress of the closure plan in March.