ISLAMABAD: A viral image claiming that Pakistan’s embassy and consulates in the United Arab Emirates have suspended their services is false, with no official confirmation from Pakistani or UAE authorities.
A fact-check by WE News English found no evidence to support the claim, indicating it is part of a wider wave of unverified information surrounding the upcoming Islamabad talks.
The graphic, styled as a breaking news alert and carrying the logo of Pakistani broadcaster ARY News, alleges in Urdu that the UAE embassy in Pakistan has halted consular operations. However, the image does not match any verified announcement by UAE authorities or credible media outlets.
No official confirmation
A review of official statements from the UAE government, Pakistan embassy and major international news organisations found no confirmation of any such decision.
There is also no record of ARY News publishing this claim in its verified broadcasts or digital platforms, suggesting the graphic may have been fabricated or manipulated.
Part of broader unverified claims
Security sources in Pakistan’s capital islamabad said the image has been widely shared, and it is a part of a coordinated disinformation campaign aimed at undermining the planned US–Iran talks in Islamabad.
These claims suggest foreign actors are spreading misleading narratives to create uncertainty around the talks, including doubts about diplomatic participation and Pakistan’s role.
Context: Heightened information environment
The spread of the false UAE claim comes at a time of heightened geopolitical sensitivity, as Pakistan prepares to host high-level negotiations between the United States and Iran following a ceasefire.
Experts note that such periods often see an increase in misleading or unverified content online, particularly when diplomatic developments attract global attention.
Fake news is being circulated by anti-peace elements whose apparent aim is to undermine the Islamabad peace talks. The disinformation campaign is believed to be driven by foreign actors, including coordinated online accounts posing as regional identities.
