QUETTA/TAFTAN: Another batch of some 106 Pakistani citizens stranded in the Middle East returned safely to Pakistan through the Taftan border crossing from Iran the other day, as the government continues its repatriation efforts following heightened regional tensions between Iran and US-Israel.
Official estimates show that over the past five days, 1,497 Pakistani nationals have arrived at Taftan from Iran, where many had been living or working prior to the escalation.
Authorities confirmed that all returnees are being provided with temporary accommodation, meals, medical screening, and transportation assistance to their final destinations within Pakistan. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged citizens still abroad to register with local embassies and remain in contact with consular services for further updates.
Officials said the returnees include students, pilgrims, traders and families who had been residing in various Iranian cities. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) confirmed that immigration formalities were completed at Taftan, where the arrivals are being processed.
According to border authorities, the largest group comprised medical students from Zahedan, alongside pilgrims stranded in Mashhad and Qom. Traders and families engaged in cross‑border commerce also joined the exodus, citing growing insecurity and disruption of daily life following the escalation.
The repatriations began on March 2, when 19 students of Zahedan Medical University crossed into Pakistan. In the following days, more than 940 citizens returned, including over 500 students and 50 pilgrims. Officials said small groups continue to arrive daily.
The sudden influx is reported to have strained facilities at the remote Taftan crossing, which lacks infrastructure to handle large numbers. On government’s instructions, authorities in Balochistan have been tasked with coordinating humanitarian support, while federal agencies monitor the situation closely.
The war erupted after joint US‑Israeli strikes killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and senior commanders, plunging the region into instability. Pakistan’s foreign ministry has urged citizens to exercise caution, remain in touch with diplomatic missions in their respective countries, and is facilitating safe passage for those wishing to return.
Local traders warn that the disruption of cross‑border commerce could have lasting economic consequences for Balochistan, where livelihoods are closely tied to Iran, as officials expect more Pakistanis to arrive in the coming weeks as the conflict deepens.
