ISLAMABAD: On Tuesday, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar provided a detailed update in the Senate regarding the status of Pakistani citizens currently in Iran and the ongoing repatriation efforts. He revealed that approximately 35,000 Pakistanis remain in Iran at present, highlighting the significant number of nationals residing or stranded there amid complex regional circumstances.
Dar emphasized that the border crossings at Taftan and Zahedan, which connect Pakistan to Iran, have remained operational throughout this period. These crossings serve as vital transit points for the movement of people and goods between the two neighboring countries. He confirmed that, so far, a total of 792 Pakistani nationals have been successfully repatriated from Iran, a figure that includes a notable group of 46 students.
Addressing the issue of visa regulations, the Deputy Prime Minister noted that many Pakistanis traveling to the border without prior visas have been granted entry permits by Iranian authorities directly at the border. This flexibility has facilitated smoother repatriation processes and eased the return of stranded citizens. Ishaq Dar, who has also held the position of Foreign Minister, reassured the Senate that the government is exerting every possible effort to bring back its nationals safely.
In addition to the repatriation efforts, Dar touched upon Pakistan’s diplomatic role, stating that the country was prepared to act as a mediator between the United States and Iran to help resolve ongoing tensions. Although the mediation has not yet materialized, the government continues to explore all avenues to contribute to a peaceful resolution of the issue, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability.
Further details from earlier reports complement this update, revealing that 183 students have been brought back safely to Quetta via the Taftan border, thanks to coordinated efforts by the Government of Pakistan and the Pakistan Army. These students were enrolled in various medical colleges across Iran, including Tehran, Isfahan, Zanjan, and Yazd. The group comprises 132 students from Punjab, 22 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 15 from Sindh, 10 from Gilgit-Baltistan, three from Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and one from Baluchistan, reflecting the diverse provincial representation among those studying abroad.
Overall, these developments highlight the government’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Pakistani citizens abroad, particularly in challenging situations. The continued operation of border crossings and the facilitation of visa issuance at the border demonstrate pragmatic steps taken to ensure the safe return of nationals. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to mediate regional conflicts further illustrate its proactive approach to maintaining peace and security in the neighborhood.
