US announces phased closure of Peshawar consulate, says operations will shift to Islamabad The US State Department has announced the phased closure of its consulate in Peshawar, saying it would transfer operations to the embassy in Islamabad, it emerged on Wednesday. “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,” it said in a statement .