Govt urges citizens to avoid travel to Iran amid escalating tensions
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The Government of Pakistan has issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to avoid traveling to Iran for a limited period due to the recent Israeli attacks, Associated Press of Pakistan reported on Saturday.
Officials stated that the advisory has been issued to ensure the safety and security of Pakistani nationals, and the government is closely monitoring the evolving regional situation.
In line with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's directives, necessary steps are already being taken to ensure the safe return of Pakistani citizens currently in Iran, officials added.
The Foreign Office has also established a crisis management cell to provide emergency assistance to citizens abroad.
Read More: Israel warns of more strikes as Iran signals imminent 'heavy' attack
Amid ongoing tension, several other countries have also issued travel advisories, advising caution to their citizens as the situation escalates.
The U.S. Department of State is urging all Americans to exercise extreme caution in light of the ongoing Israel-Iran tensions.
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, the State Department said, "Due to high tensions in the Middle East, the security environment remains complex and can change quickly. We remind U.S. citizens in Israel and the broader region of the continued need for caution and encourage them to monitor the news for breaking developments."
Britain has also warned its citizens against traveling to Israel amid fears of an all-out war with Iran.
In its latest travel advice, the Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to the country. Explaining its advice, the Foreign Office pointed to the nationwide state of emergency declared in Israel and the Israeli strikes against nuclear and military facilities in Iran.
The advisory warned that the situation could escalate rapidly and pose serious risks, including the possibility of missile strikes.
Also Read: Iran claims downing of Israeli F-35, says female pilot captured
Earlier today, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed full solidarity with Tehran in a telephonic conversation with Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian while also condemning Israel's 'unprovoked aggression.'
In a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office on Saturday, the premier expressed 'Pakistan's unwavering solidarity with the brotherly people of Iran' and denounced the Israeli strikes as an 'affront to international law and the UN Charter.'
'Iran has every right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter,' Sharif said, underscoring Islamabad's firm stance on the matter.
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