Pakistan advises citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran and Iraq amid heightened regional tensions following Israeli attacks on Iranian military and nuclear sites, especially for religious purposes.
“In view of the evolving security situation in the region, pilgrims from Pakistan are advised to reconsider their travel plans to Iran and Iraq,” the Foreign Office said in a statement.
The advisory comes in the wake of Israeli attacks on Iranian territory early Friday, which targeted high-value military and nuclear sites. The attacks resulted in the deaths of several senior Iranian military commanders and nuclear scientists, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
All pertinent government agencies were instructed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to provide Pakistani pilgrims and citizens who are currently in Iran with their full support. In order to guarantee their security and enable their safe return to Pakistan, he urged concerted efforts.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up a Crisis Management Cell to respond to the developing crisis and offer Pakistani nationals overseas emergency assistance.
Additionally, the Pakistani Embassy in Tehran has been directed to maintain constant communication with the local population and Zaireen (pilgrims) and to provide all assistance that is required. A dedicated emergency hotline, (+98) 2166941388, has been given by the Embassy.
The government is keeping a careful eye on the situation and has promised to take additional action if needed to protect its nationals’ interests overseas.
