Pakistan has evacuated 450 pilgrims from Iran so far: Dar
ISLAMABAD: In response to the deteriorating security situation in the region, Pakistan has evacuated 450 pilgrims from Iran and is working to assist others still stranded, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said on Sunday.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Dar said that the evacuation of Pakistani Zaireen (pilgrims) was carried out on Saturday, and efforts are currently underway to arrange the safe return of 154 Pakistani students who remain in Iran.
He added that the Pakistani Embassy in Iraq is actively engaged with pilgrims stranded there due to the closure of airspace. 'Measures are being taken to ensure their safety and arrange possible evacuation,' Dar assured. The Foreign minister also stated that the Crisis Management Unit (CMU) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is fully operational and available 24/7 to assist Pakistani nationals in distress. Citizens can contact the CMU via phone at +92 51-9207887 or by email at [email protected].
'Our embassies in the region are closely coordinating all necessary efforts to support Pakistani nationals and Zaireen,' he said.
Amid rising tensions following Israeli air strikes, the government has issued a temporary travel advisory, urging citizens to avoid travel to Iran and Iraq. The Foreign Office advised all Pakistani pilgrims to reconsider their travel plans to both countries due to the evolving security environment. Officials emphasized that the government is closely monitoring the situation and remains committed to the protection and well-being of its citizens.
Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had directed all relevant departments to provide full assistance for the safe return of Pakistani pilgrims currently in Iran.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
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