Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif has directed to provide assistance for safe return of Pakistani pilgrims from Iran following Israel’s widescale attack and Tehran’s vowing to take revenge.
Meanwhile, a Crisis Management Cell has been established at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs office in Islamabad, said the PM Office.
“Every possible resources should be brought into use to bring back zaireens (pilgrims) safely,” said the PM.
He directed the Pakistani embassy in Iran to remain alert till the situation normalizes.
On the other hand, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar strongly condemned Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iran during a post-budget conference on Friday. He expressed Pakistan’s solidarity with Iran, stating, “We stand with Iran in this difficult time.”
Dar also addressed economic progress in Pakistan, countering claims of an impending default. “Pakistan is now on the path of economic stability,” he said, noting a clear decline in inflation and policy rates. He highlighted that macroeconomic indicators are improving due to effective government policies. “Our foreign exchange reserves are stabilizing,” he added, while reminding the audience that under past PML-N governments, Pakistan was considered a major economy.
The deputy prime minister emphasized Pakistan’s strategic and economic potential. “Pakistan is a nuclear and missile power, rich in natural resources, and has immense potential to progress,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shared updates regarding Pakistani pilgrims in Iran. Senior officials confirmed that approximately 5,000 Pakistani pilgrims are currently in Iran. However, they noted that the number frequently changes and many pilgrims do not register or maintain contact with Pakistani diplomatic missions.
Given the escalating security situation in the region, the Foreign Ministry has advised Pakistani pilgrims to reconsider their travel plans to Iran and Iraq. “We have issued clear guidance for the safety of our citizens,” said a ministry spokesperson.
Pakistani citizens in need of assistance have been urged to contact the nearest Pakistani mission, which will continue to provide support and facilitate their safe return when necessary.
This statement comes amid rising tensions in the Middle East following Israel’s military strikes in Iran, with global leaders urging de-escalation to prevent a wider conflict.