FO confirms safe return of 268 Pakistanis from Iraq
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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the successful repatriation of 268 Pakistani nationals from Iraq through two special flights operated by Iraqi Airways.
The flights, originating from Basra, arrived safely in Karachi and Islamabad earlier in the day, the Foreign Ministry confirmed on Monday in a statement released on X.
Authorities said they remain in active coordination with Iraqi Airways and relevant Iraqi officials to facilitate the timely and safe return of all remaining Pakistani pilgrims, or zaireen, still in Iraq.
🔊PR NO. 1️⃣7️⃣3️⃣/2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣5️⃣
Return of Pakistani Zaireen from Iraq.
🔗⬇️https://t.co/qUiur7odzC pic.twitter.com/E5sfdTH6dp — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) June 16, 2025
'All Pakistani zaireen currently in Iraq are advised to remain in close contact with the Pakistan Embassy in Baghdad, designated mandoobs, and their respective airlines for timely updates regarding their travel arrangements,' the statement said.
The ministry added that Iraqi Airways is currently operating daily flights on the Basra–Dubai route, which some Pakistani nationals have already used as an alternative travel option. Those seeking to use this route are encouraged to reach out to the nearest Iraqi Airways office for booking and assistance.
'All zaireen are further advised to remain prepared for travel at short notice,' the ministry said, adding that it continues to closely monitor the evolving situation.
Read More: 450 Pakistani pilgrims evacuated from Iran
The Foreign Office reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safe and orderly repatriation of all citizens stranded in Iraq amid heightened regional tensions.
A day earlier, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed that 450 Pakistani pilgrims have been successfully evacuated from Iran, stating that the government is taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of Pakistani nationals in the region.
He said the evacuation of 450 Pakistani pilgrims from Iran was completed on Saturday. He added that arrangements are also being made for the safe evacuation of the first batch of 154 Pakistani students stranded in Iran.
Israel's assault on Iran
The recent conflict between Iran and Israel has escalated into the most intense direct confrontation in their history, as both countries exchange large-scale strikes.
Israel launched 'Operation Rising Lion' with a surprise attack on June 13, targeting Iranian military leadership, nuclear facilities, and ballistic missile production sites.
The operation resulted in the deaths of dozens, including top Iranian commanders and nuclear scientists. Israeli officials said the campaign would intensify in the coming days.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue striking 'every target of the regime,' while Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that further attacks would trigger 'a more severe and powerful response.'
Also Read : Trump eyes Iran-Israel peace via Putin
In retaliation, Iran launched waves of drones and missiles at Israeli targets over the weekend, hitting both military bases and civilian infrastructure.
At least 14 people were reported killed in Israel, and dozens more were injured. One Iranian missile barrage killed three people and wounded 76.
Iranian authorities say more than 224 civillians, including 70 women and children have been kllled in Israeli assault, according to Al Jazeera.
Bombings have targeted northern Tehran's Niavaran district, as well as Saadat Abad, Valiasr and Hafte Tir.
Among those killed in the Israeli strikes were the intelligence chief of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and two senior generals alongside Iran's eight nuclear scientists.
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