Riot police cordon off a street leading to the US embassy during a protest rally against the release of Davis in Islamabad.—AFP

ISLAMABAD: The US embassy in Islamabad will close its doors and shut its consulates in Pakistan on Friday because of protests after the release of a CIA contractor accused of double murder.

Small demonstrations broke out across the country after American Raymond Davis was set free Wednesday after paying $2 million in blood money to the families of the dead.

“The US embassy and consulates will be closed for routine business tomorrow,” embassy spokesman Alberto Rodriguez said on Thursday.

The decision was made “for public safety at large because there may be demonstrations tomorrow”.

The biggest protest following Davis' release was in Lahore, where some 800 students rallied at Punjab University campus chanting anti-US slogans such as “Death to America”.

Opinion

Editorial

China security ties
Updated 14 Nov, 2024

China security ties

If China's security concerns aren't addressed satisfactorily, it may affect bilateral ties. CT cooperation should be pursued instead of having foreign forces here.
Steep price
14 Nov, 2024

Steep price

THE Hindu Kush-Himalayan region is in big trouble. A new study unveiled at the ongoing COP29 reveals that if high...
A high-cost plan
14 Nov, 2024

A high-cost plan

THE government has approved an expensive plan for FBR in the hope of tackling its deep-seated inefficiencies. The...
United stance
Updated 13 Nov, 2024

United stance

It would've been better if the OIC-Arab League summit had announced practical measures to punish Israel.
Unscheduled visit
13 Nov, 2024

Unscheduled visit

Unusual IMF visit shows the lender will closely watch implementation of programme goals to prevent it from derailing.
Bara’s businesswomen
13 Nov, 2024

Bara’s businesswomen

Bara’s brave women have proven that with the right support, societal barriers can be overcome.