ISLAMABAD: In order to ensure the safety of its nationals amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, Pakistan has evacuated 450 pilgrims from Iran, with additional evacuations planned from both Iran and Iraq in the coming days.
The move follows Israeli strikes on Iran on Friday, which reportedly struck nuclear facilities and killed military commanders and nuclear scientists.
Iran has since launched multiple waves of salvoes on Israeli cities but only some missiles have hit targets, killing nearly 10 people.
In a statement, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said that the government is taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of Pakistani citizens caught in the conflict zones.
Dar noted that, in addition to the 450 pilgrims evacuated from Iran, preparations are underway to repatriate Pakistani students, starting with a group of 154.
“Our embassy in Iraq is in constant communication with Pakistani pilgrims stranded due to airspace closures,” Ishaq Dar added, assuring that efforts are ongoing to ensure their safe return.
In light of the evolving regional situation, the Government of Pakistan is taking necessary measures for the welfare and safety of Pakistani nationals:
– Evacuation of 450 Pakistani
Zaireen from Iran has been facilitated as of yesterday.– Arrangements are being made for the…
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) June 15, 2025
The Foreign Office’s Crisis Management Unit remains fully operational and is available 24/7 via phone at +92 51-9207887 or email at [email protected].
Dar also stated that Pakistani embassies in the region are working closely to support and coordinate the safe return of nationals.
Following the Israeli strikes, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif instructed all relevant agencies to mobilize resources to protect and assist Pakistani citizens in the region.
The Foreign Office has since advised all Pakistani pilgrims to reconsider travel plans to Iran and Iraq due to the volatile security situation.
Avoid travelling to Iran
Furthermore, Pakistan’s government has asked its citizens to avoid travelling to Iran for a limited period in light of recent Israeli attacks.
In its advisory issued for the citizens, the government said it is closely monitoring the situation and remains fully committed to the protection of its citizens.
In line with the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, necessary measures have already been initiated for the safe return of Pakistani nationals currently present in Iran, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said in a statement.
