Pakistan, Iran Agree on 24/7 Border Access During Muharram and Arbaeen

Pakistan, Iran Agree on 24/7 Border Access During Muharram and Arbaeen
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Pakistan and Iran have finalized arrangements to keep their shared border open 24 hours a day during the blessed month of Muharram and the Arbaeen season to accommodate religious pilgrims, The Express Tribune reported.

The agreement was reached during a meeting between Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and his Iranian counterpart, Eskandar Momeni, in Tehran on Wednesday.

According to the agreement, the border will operate without time restrictions to facilitate cross-border movement of pilgrims. Iran will provide accommodation and meals in Mashhad for 5,000 Pakistani pilgrims. A direct hotline will be established between the two governments to address pilgrim-related issues. Additionally, a trilateral meeting involving Pakistan, Iran, and Iraq will be held in Mashhad ahead of Arbaeen to streamline pilgrim arrangements. Both countries agreed to increase flight options and explore sea travel for pilgrims.

The honourable rituals of Imam al-Hussein, peace be upon him, continue to influence geopolitical dynamics across the region, and beyond.