Pakistan Evacuates Over 1,000 Nat'ls From Iran, Iraq Amid Tension

(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) ISLAMABAD, June 17 (KUNA) -- Pakistan has so far evacuated over 1,000 nationals from Iran and Iraq amid growing escalation between Israel and Iran.
According to a press release by Pakistan Foreign Office, the ministry in close coordination with Iraqi Airways successfully facilitated the repatriation of 268 Pakistani nationals through two special flights from Basra to Karachi and Islamabad.
The Ministry remains actively engaged with Iraqi Airways and all other relevant Iraqi authorities to ensure the safe and timely return of the remaining Pakistani pilgrims in Iraq.
The FO advised all Pakistani pilgrims currently in Iraq to remain in close contact with the Pakistan Embassy in Baghdad, while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to monitor the situation closely and remains fully committed to facilitating the safe and orderly return of all Pakistani pilgrims.
Moreover, the stranded Pakistanis in Iran were brought back to Pakistan through Taftan border in eight coaches carrying 545 pilgrims and 228 students, said officials, while the stranded Pakistanis in Iran are returning home through land route due to closure of Iranian airspace.
A senior administrative official, Deputy Commissioner Attaul Moneem welcomed the students and the pilgrims at the border.
The district administration is arranging medical care, food, accommodation and travel facilities in Taftan so that Pakistanis returning from Iran do not face any difficulties," the deputy commissioner said.
Earlier, Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif has directed all relevant authorities to provide every possible assistance for the safe return and protection of Pakistani pilgrims.
A Crisis Management Cell was established at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to monitor the situation and coordinate efforts over the PM's directions. (end)
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