On one hand, Pakistan is trying to end the ongoing conflict between Iran and America, while on the other hand, America has announced the closure of its Consulate in Peshawar in a phased manner. It is being told that the Consulate had to be closed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa due to security reasons. All responsibilities related to the closure will be handed over to the US Embassy located in the capital Islamabad.
It is being said that the Pakistani Army was not in a position to provide security to the American Consulate in the troubled Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK). The influence of the terrorist organization Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has increased rapidly in this region and seeing its strength, the Americans are having to leave that area. This news has also been confirmed by the US State Department. This decision has been taken in view of ensuring the safety of diplomatic staff and better utilization of resources. Besides, it is also being considered as a part of the Trump administration's efforts to cut expenses.
In an official statement, the Office of the State Department Spokesperson said, "The US State Department is phasing out the closure of the US Consulate General in Peshawar. Responsibility for diplomatic relations with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will now be transferred to the US Embassy in Islamabad." “This decision reflects our commitment to the safety of our diplomatic staff and efficient management of resources,” the statement said.
Despite the closure of the Consulate in Peshawar and the end of its presence here, the US made it clear that there would be no change in its broader policy priorities in Pakistan. “While our physical presence in Peshawar may be changing, the administration's policy priorities in Pakistan remain as strong as ever,” the statement said, adding that Washington will continue its engagement with the region to “promote economic ties.” “At the same time, regional security can be ensured and the interests of the American people can be furthered.”
The State Department said, “Through the US Mission in Pakistan, we remain fully dedicated to advancing the relationship between our two countries through our remaining diplomatic posts in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore.” This decision of America comes after initial indications were received in March this year, in which it was told that this Consulate would be closed permanently.
The State Department then informed Congress of its intention that closing the Consulate would reduce expenses and could save approximately $7.5 million annually, and would not affect America's strategic interests in Pakistan. However, this decision is not a new decision. This case was under review for more than a year. This review was part of a large-scale 'downsizing' initiated during the Trump administration, under which many federal agencies are to be closed.
The Peshawar Consulate, located near the Afghan border, has historically played a large role in US operations related to Afghanistan. Currently 18 American employees and 89 local employees are working in this Consulate. The closure process is expected to cost approximately $3 million, a large portion of which will be spent on moving infrastructure such as armored office trailers, vehicles, and telecommunications equipment to Islamabad and other US missions in Pakistan.
Consular services previously provided in Peshawar will now be handled by the US Embassy in Islamabad, about 184 kilometers away.
