Hundreds of Pakistanis Return from Iran via Taftan Amid Ongoing Iran-Israel Conflict
TAFTAN: Amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, 714 Pakistani nationals have returned from Iran through the Taftan border crossing, immigration officials confirmed on Monday.
The returnees included regular citizens, traders, and transport drivers. Due to the security situation triggered by the military confrontation between Tehran and Tel Aviv, special security arrangements were implemented at the border.
Officials stated that three buses carrying 154 Pakistani students arrived from Tehran on Monday. After completing immigration procedures, the students were moved to Pakistan House. Including earlier arrivals, the total number of students returning via Taftan that day reached 214.
Repatriation Triggered by Iran-Israel Hostilities
The repatriation operation began following the start of a military conflict between Israel and Iran last Friday. Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Iranian military installations, nuclear sites, and civilian areas. So far, the strikes have resulted in at least 224 casualties in Iran, including senior military leaders, nuclear scientists, and non-combatants.
In response, Iran launched multiple drone and missile attacks, reportedly killing at least 24 individuals in Israel, according to the Israeli prime minister’s office.
Iran, which does not recognize Israel, has long accused it of orchestrating sabotage operations against its nuclear infrastructure and assassinating its scientists.
268 Pakistanis Brought Back from Iraq
In a separate repatriation effort, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs coordinated with Iraqi Airways to facilitate the return of 268 Pakistani citizens stranded in Iraq. Two special flights were arranged from Basra to Karachi and Islamabad, both of which landed safely on Monday.
A spokesperson from the Foreign Office stated that the ministry is actively coordinating with Iraqi authorities and Iraqi Airways to ensure the safe and timely return of all remaining Pakistani pilgrims (zaireen) currently in Iraq.
Pilgrims have been advised to maintain regular contact with the Pakistan Embassy in Baghdad, their assigned manboobs (coordinators), and respective airlines for the latest travel updates.
At present, Iraqi Airways is operating daily flights on the Basra–Dubai route, and some Pakistani nationals have already availed of this option. Those wishing to travel through this route are encouraged to reach out to the nearest Iraqi Airways office for booking and assistance.
The Foreign Office also advised all zaireen to stay ready for travel at short notice, as the situation remains dynamic. A spokesperson from the Foreign Office stated that the ministry is actively coordinating with Iraqi authorities and Iraqi Airways to ensure the safe and timely return of all remaining Pakistani pilgrims (zaireen) currently in Iraq.
Pilgrims have been advised to maintain regular contact with the Pakistan Embassy in Baghdad, their assigned mandoobs (coordinators), and respective airlines for the latest travel updates.
At present, Iraqi Airways is operating daily flights on the Basra–Dubai route, and some Pakistani nationals have already availed of this option. Those wishing to travel through this route are encouraged to reach out to the nearest Iraqi Airways office for booking and assistance.
The Foreign Office also advised all zaireen to stay ready for travel at short notice, as the situation remains dynamic. The Foreign Ministry is monitoring the situation closely and is fully committed to ensuring the orderly and secure return of Pakistani citizens,” the spokesperson added.
Border Closures Due to Security Concerns
In response to the regional unrest, the Balochistan government has shut down border crossings with Iran at Panjgur, Gwadar, and Kech, citing security threats stemming from the Middle East conflict. The closures are for an unspecified duration.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Interior has issued a travel advisory urging Pakistani citizens to avoid traveling to Iran, as the airspace between the two countries remains closed due to the conflict.
Despite these restrictions, the Taftan crossing in Chagai district remains open. Authorities confirmed that both cross-border trade and passenger movement are continuing without interruption at this location.
