Pakistan repatriated an additional 618 nationals from Iran and Iraq on Monday as part of its ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of citizens amid the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, according to the Foreign Office and local authorities in Balochistan.
This followed the earlier return of 450 pilgrims from Iran, with further evacuations planned from both Iran and Iraq. The operation also includes arrangements for the safe return of Pakistani students residing in Iran, with the first group of 154 already evacuated.
The evacuation drive was launched in response to Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iran, which targeted military commanders, scientists, and nuclear facilities. Israel claimed the attacks were intended to hinder Tehran’s nuclear capabilities, though Iran maintains that its uranium enrichment efforts are strictly for peaceful purposes.
On Monday, approximately 350 Pakistani pilgrims crossed into Pakistan from Iran via the Taftan border. Chagai Deputy Commissioner Attaul Muneem reported that the group included 45 students and 305 pilgrims, all of whom were accommodated at Pakistan House in Taftan before being transported to Quetta.
“The district administration has provided medical care, food, lodging, and transportation to ensure a smooth transition for those returning,” Muneem stated. He added that many stranded Pakistanis are opting to cross the land border due to the volatile security situation.
In parallel efforts, 268 Pakistani pilgrims were repatriated from Iraq through two special flights departing from the city of Basra to Karachi and Islamabad. The Foreign Office confirmed that it is working closely with Iraqi authorities and Iraqi Airways to facilitate these operations and ensure a safe return for all citizens.
The FO urged all Pakistani pilgrims still in Iraq to maintain close contact with the Pakistani Embassy in Baghdad, designated representatives (mandoobs), and their respective airlines for timely travel updates.
Iraqi Airways is currently operating daily flights between Basra and Dubai, which many pilgrims are using as a transit route to return to Pakistan. Those seeking to travel via this route have been encouraged to reach out to the nearest Iraqi Airways office for assistance and booking.
The FO also advised all pilgrims to remain prepared for travel on short notice, affirming its commitment to supporting their safe and orderly repatriation.
Following the deadly Israeli strikes, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had instructed all relevant departments to provide full support for the protection and repatriation of Pakistani citizens in affected regions.
A Crisis Management Cell was activated at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to coordinate these efforts and monitor the evolving situation. The Pakistani Embassy in Iran has also been directed to remain alert and extend full support to the pilgrims.
To facilitate communication, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar earlier shared the embassy’s emergency contact number: (0098)-2166941388.
