Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has provided a comprehensive update on the precarious situation faced by Pakistani nationals caught in the escalating tensions across the Middle East, particularly in Iran. With the regional security environment rapidly deteriorating, Pakistan has swiftly launched emergency response measures aimed at ensuring the safety and timely evacuation of its citizens. Dar revealed that approximately 35,000 Pakistanis are currently stranded in various countries throughout the region, highlighting the scale of the challenge confronting the government.
In response to the crisis, Pakistan immediately established diplomatic channels with Iran, neighboring Gulf states, and influential global powers to manage the fallout and seek peaceful resolutions. Dar emphasized that these diplomatic efforts are focused on de-escalating conflict and promoting dialogue to avoid further deterioration of the situation. The Foreign Minister underscored the importance of sustained engagement to protect the interests and security of Pakistanis living abroad during this volatile period.
One of the major complications in facilitating evacuations has been the closure of airspace over Iran and several Gulf countries, which has severely disrupted commercial flights and left many Pakistanis stranded far from home. While land routes such as the Taftan border crossing remain operational, they involve long and arduous journeys, adding to the difficulties faced by those trying to return. Dar noted that over 33,000 Pakistanis currently reside in Iran alone, many of whom are now in a vulnerable position due to these travel restrictions.
To address these challenges, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has activated a Crisis Management Cell working around the clock to coordinate evacuation efforts and provide assistance. Emergency response centers have been set up in key Iranian cities including Tehran, Zahedan, and Mashhad to support stranded nationals. Additionally, Pakistan’s diplomatic missions in the United Arab Emirates—specifically the embassy in Abu Dhabi and consulates in Dubai and Jeddah—have been mobilized to assist citizens affected by the conflict.
Dar also revealed that Pakistan had offered to mediate between Iran and the United States, proposing Islamabad as a neutral ground for dialogue aimed at reducing hostilities. This diplomatic overture reflects Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability and its desire to play a constructive role amid rising tensions. Tragically, the Foreign Minister confirmed that a Pakistani citizen lost their life in Abu Dhabi as a result of Iranian missile strikes, underscoring the human cost of the conflict.
Providing further statistics, Dar shared that 64 Pakistanis have been safely evacuated to Azerbaijan, while Pakistan has received 300 Iranian nationals seeking refuge. So far, 792 Pakistanis have successfully returned from Iran. The minister also highlighted the significant Pakistani expatriate populations in the region, including approximately 40,000 in Iraq, around 350,000 in Qatar—with 1,450 there on visit visas—and about 102,000 working in Kuwait. These figures illustrate the extensive Pakistani diaspora affected by the ongoing crisis.
Despite the suspension of commercial flights, border crossings such as Taftan remain open, facilitating some movement. The government has ensured that helplines are operational 24/7 to provide assistance and information to those stranded. Furthermore, visa services have been extended at the Azerbaijan border to ease the return process for Pakistanis. Ishaq Dar’s detailed briefing highlights the Pakistani government’s proactive and multifaceted approach to safeguarding its citizens amid one of the most challenging regional crises in recent years.
