Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed all relevant authorities to ensure the safety and secure return of Pakistani pilgrims currently in Iran, following Israel’s recent deadly airstrikes in the region. The instructions were issued on Friday amid growing concerns over the security of nationals abroad.
In response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up a dedicated Crisis Management Cell to monitor developments and coordinate protective measures. The Pakistani Embassy in Iran has also been placed on high alert and tasked with offering all possible assistance to pilgrims, known locally as Zaireen.
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PM Shehbaz stressed the importance of taking immediate and effective steps to protect Pakistani citizens, instructing officials to use all available resources to guarantee their safe and timely return. He further ordered continuous communication between Pakistani diplomatic staff and the pilgrims until regional tensions subside.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also shared the embassy’s emergency hotline number for assistance: (0098)-2166941388. Meanwhile, the Foreign Office has advised all Pakistanis to reconsider travel plans to Iran and Iraq given the deteriorating security situation.
A 24/7 Crisis Management Unit has now been activated to assist nationals and ensure prompt support during this period of heightened tension.
