In a significant development, 51 Pakistani nationals, including five students, have been successfully repatriated from Iran amid escalating tensions between Iran and the United States. This move comes as part of a broader humanitarian response initiated by Pakistani authorities to ensure the safety of its citizens stranded in the conflict-ridden region.
The first group of returnees crossed the Gabd-Rimdan border on March 2, 2026, marking the start of an accelerated repatriation process. Gwadar Deputy Commissioner Naqeebullah Kakar confirmed that the returnees include businesspersons, tourists, and students. At the border, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has established a 24-hour immigration desk to facilitate smooth entry procedures.
In response to directives from Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti, local authorities have mobilized resources to provide temporary accommodation, meals, and onward travel assistance for the returnees. These measures aim to address the immediate needs of citizens after their exhaustive overland journeys.
This repatriation effort occurs amid broader regional instability, with Pakistan calling for restraint and de-escalation in the ongoing Iran-US conflict. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure the safe return of Pakistanis via Azerbaijan, urging all relevant institutions to coordinate effectively.
The Foreign Office has advised citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran, highlighting the precarious security situation. As repatriation efforts continue, border officials remain vigilant, coordinating logistics to ensure an orderly process.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, March 3rd, 2026
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