On June 16, 2025, Pakistan successfully repatriated 714 nationals from Iran via the Taftan border and 268 from Iraq through special flights amid heightened tensions due to ongoing military conflicts between Iran and Israel.
Immigration officials reported that 714 Pakistani nationals, including citizens, traders, and drivers, crossed into Pakistan from Iran via buses at the Taftan border in Chagai district. Among them were 154 students arriving on three buses from Tehran. An additional 60 students crossed earlier, bringing the total student arrivals to 214 on Monday.
Special security arrangements were implemented at Taftan due to the Iran-Israel conflict, ensuring safe passage for all returnees. The 154 students from Tehran are being transferred to Pakistan House after completing immigration formalities.
Joint Statement
🔗⬇️https://t.co/5tOnXObHo4 pic.twitter.com/uC7S2Kq11e
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) June 16, 2025The repatriation began on Friday, June 13, 2025, following the escalation of the Iran-Israel conflict. The Taftan border remains operational despite regional tensions, facilitating cross-border trade and passenger movement. The repatriation efforts coincide with intensified military actions between Iran and Israel:
Since Friday, Israel has conducted large-scale attacks on Iranian military bases, nuclear facilities, and residential areas, resulting in at least 224 deaths, including military commanders, nuclear scientists, and civilians.
Great honor to serve our nationals . Our students were brought to our Embassy and being assisted for repatriation to Pakistan . pic.twitter.com/8pEqA3Juo6
— Pakistan Embassy Iran (@PakinIran) June 15, 2025Iran responded with drone and missile attacks, killing at least 24 people in Israel, according to the Israeli Prime Minister’s office. Iran does not recognise Israel and has accused it of sabotaging its nuclear program and assassinating scientists.
Repatriation from Iraq
In a separate operation, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in coordination with Iraqi Airways, facilitated the return of 268 Pakistani nationals from Iraq on Monday. Two special flights from Basra landed safely in Karachi and Islamabad.
The Ministry is working closely with Iraqi Airways and authorities to ensure the safe return of the remaining Pakistani zaireen (pilgrims) in Iraq.
Pakistani zaireen in Iraq are urged to contact the Pakistan Embassy in Baghdad, designated manboobs, and their airlines for travel updates.
🔊PR NO. 1️⃣7️⃣3️⃣/2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣5️⃣
Return of Pakistani Zaireen from Iraq.
🔗⬇️https://t.co/qUiur7odzC pic.twitter.com/E5sfdTH6dp
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) June 16, 2025Iraqi Airways operates daily flights on the Basra–Dubai route, which some Pakistani nationals utilised on Monday. Those interested in this route can contact Iraqi Airways offices for bookings. The Ministry advises all zaireen to be prepared for short-notice travel and continues to monitor the situation.
On Sunday, June 15, 2025, the Balochistan government closed border crossing points with Iran in Panjgur, Gwadar, and Kech due to security concerns stemming from Middle East escalations. These closures are in place for an unspecified period.
Despite regional closures, the Taftan border crossing in the Chagai district continues to function normally. Authorities confirm that cross-border trade and passenger movement are unaffected, ensuring a vital lifeline for repatriation and commerce.
