Pakistan evacuates nationals from Iran amid escalating regional conflict

Pakistan evacuates nationals from Iran amid escalating regional conflict
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Pakistan has evacuated at least 450 pilgrims from Iran and is preparing to repatriate over 150 Pakistani students as regional tensions intensify following a wave of Israeli and Iranian attacks, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced on Sunday.

The violence erupted after Israel launched strikes on Iranian military and nuclear facilities on Friday, triggering retaliation from Iran and heightening fears of a broader conflict. Many Pakistani pilgrims were stranded as travel routes were disrupted.

“Evacuation of 450 Pakistani zaireen from Iran has been facilitated,” Dar stated on social media, adding that arrangements are underway for the safe return of 154 Pakistani students in an initial batch. Pakistan’s embassy in Iraq is also assisting nationals stranded there after Iraq temporarily closed its airspace.

A crisis unit at the Foreign Ministry is coordinating efforts to ensure the safety of Pakistani citizens in the region. Islamabad has urged its nationals to postpone travel to Iran and Iraq and issued a formal travel advisory on Saturday. Pakistan has condemned Israel’s attacks, describing them as a violation of Iranian sovereignty, and called on the international community to support de-escalation through dialogue.