Key Points
- Over 1,000 Pakistanis returned home in recent days
- Government high-level meeting reviews repatriation and diplomatic support
- Foreign Ministry and missions in the region remain on alert
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s leadership convened a high-level meeting on Thursday to review and expedite ongoing efforts to repatriate Pakistani citizens from Iran as regional hostilities intensify
Authorities have also issued directions for maximum support to nationals residing in Gulf countries. According to a statement, officials briefed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the situation.
They informed the premier that over 1,000 Pakistani citizens have crossed back into Pakistan through land borders such as Taftan and Gabd-Rimdan in the past three days.
The evacuation has been complicated by escalating conflict and the closure of Iranian airspace, forcing many students, pilgrims, traders, and other citizens to return overland.
Authorities emphasised that proper facilities and security arrangements are in place at border points, and all necessary assistance is being provided to returnees.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar highlighted the Foreign Office’s continuous monitoring of the situation.
He said the Ministry and missions abroad are in engagement with regional partners to ensure safe passage for citizens who remain in Iran, where thousands are reported to still be present amid intensifying hostilities.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister also reviewed the readiness of Pakistani diplomatic missions in Gulf countries to assist expatriates, instructing that all embassies remain fully available to provide support.
Pakistan’s government expressed concern over the broader regional situation and reiterated its commitment to the safety and welfare of its citizens abroad as evacuation operations continue under challenging conditions.
