Pakistan urges religious devotees to postpone travel to Iran, Iraq amid regional tensions

Arab News

a day ago

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Friday advised its citizens planning religious travel to Iran and Iraq to reconsider their plans, citing security concerns after Israeli strikes on Iranian military and nuclear facilities earlier in the day.
The advisory mentions Pakistani 'Zaireen,' or Shi'ite Muslim pilgrims who travel to Iran and Iraq to visit sacred religious sites, particularly in Mashhad, Qom, Najaf and Karbala.
The region has seen heightened tensions following Israeli attacks on key installations in Iran, prompting fears of broader instability.
'In view of the evolving security situation in the region, the Zaireen from Pakistan are advised to reconsider their travel plans to Iran and Iraq,' the foreign office said in a brief statement issued in Islamabad.
According to a senior government official who spoke on condition of anonymity, the number of Zaireen traveling to Iran fluctuates, and most do not contact the Pakistani diplomatic missions.
'Currently, there are an estimated 5,000 Zaireen in Iran,' he said, adding that Pakistan's embassy in Tehran and its consulates remain available to assist citizens.
'Any Pakistani requiring guidance or support is encouraged to contact our relevant diplomatic missions, which will, as always, provide necessary assistance and facilitate their return to Pakistan,' the official added.
While no evacuation plans have been announced, the authorities say they are closely monitoring the regional situation.