Arrivals at Taftan Border Amidst Regional Tensions

Taftan immigration authorities reported the arrival of approximately 654 individuals from Iran via bus routes on Monday, amidst escalating tensions between Tehran and Tel Aviv over the past four days.

Officials verified that the arrivals comprised citizens, businesspersons, and drivers. Heightened security measures have been implemented in response to the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.

Authorities confirmed the arrival of three buses transporting 154 Pakistani students from Tehran to Taftan. Following immigration procedures, these students are slated for relocation to Pakistan House, bringing the total student arrival count to 214 for the day.

The repatriation process was initiated following the emergence of the Israel-Iran military confrontation on Friday.

In a separate development, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, collaborating with Iraqi Airways, facilitated the return of 268 Pakistani citizens on Monday. They were transported via two special flights from Basra to Karachi and Islamabad.

Both flights completed their journeys safely.

A Foreign Office spokesperson stated, “The Ministry is actively coordinating with Iraqi Airways and relevant Iraqi entities to guarantee the secure and prompt repatriation of the remaining Pakistani pilgrims in Iraq.”

All Pakistani pilgrims currently in Iraq are advised to maintain communication with the Pakistan Embassy in Baghdad, designated representatives, and their respective airlines for the latest travel updates.

Iraqi Airways is currently operating daily flights on the Basra–Dubai route, which some Pakistani citizens utilized. Individuals interested in this route are encouraged to contact the nearest Iraqi Airways office for bookings and assistance.

“All pilgrims are advised to be prepared for travel on short notice. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is monitoring the situation and remains dedicated to facilitating the safe and organized return of all Pakistani pilgrims,” the statement added.

The Balochistan government had previously closed all border crossing points with Iran in Panjgur, Gwadar, and Kech for an indefinite period, citing regional instability and security concerns due to recent Middle Eastern escalations.

The Ministry of Interior has advised citizens against traveling to Iran due to the ongoing conflict. Additionally, airspace between the two nations remains closed.

Despite these border closures, the Taftan border crossing in the Chagai district is still operational.

Local authorities confirmed that cross-border commerce and passenger transit are proceeding as usual.