Border between Pakistan and Iran in the Taftan area. PHOTO: FAIQAH JABBAR: Wikimedia commons
QUETA:
A total of 51 Pakistani citizens, including five students, have been repatriated from Iran following the outbreak of conflict between Iran and the United States, which has plunged the region into turmoil.
Pakistani authorities have started the process of repatriating citizens stranded in Iran due to the deteriorating security situation. The first group of returnees safely crossed the Gabd-Rimdan border and re-entered Pakistan, marking the beginning of an accelerated humanitarian response amid growing regional instability.
According to Gwadar Deputy Commissioner Naqeebullah Kakar, 51 Pakistani nationals, including five students, have so far successfully returned. Among the returnees are businessmen, tourists and students.
At the border crossing, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has set up a 24-hour immigration counter to speed up entry procedures and ensure a smooth transition for arriving citizens. Documentation and security procedures are being carried out as a priority to minimize waiting times.
As per the directives of Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti, the district administration has mobilized resources to provide temporary accommodation, meals and travel assistance to the returnees.
Officials stated that these measures are intended to address the immediate needs of citizens arriving after long and grueling land journeys.
This development comes amid broader regional instability, with Pakistan urging restraint and reduction of tensions in response to the developing conflict.
Officials stressed that repatriation efforts are ongoing, with plans underway to facilitate the safe return of more Pakistanis still in Iran. Border officials remain on high alert, coordinating logistics to ensure an orderly and safe repatriation process.
Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had directed the Ministry of External Affairs to take all necessary measures to ensure safe repatriation of Pakistanis stranded in Iran.
He ordered that all citizens should return safely to Pakistan via Azerbaijan. In this regard, he ordered the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to immediately contact the government of Azerbaijan.
Shehbaz also directed all relevant federal and provincial institutions to immediately ensure comprehensive and effective security measures given the prevailing situation. He stressed that all institutions must fulfill their responsibilities with mutual coordination and complete harmony.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs had advised Pakistani citizens to avoid all non-compulsory travel to Iran for their safety.
