In a major repatriation operation, more than 150 Pakistani pilgrims who were stranded in Iran due to escalating tensions and armed conflict between Iran and Israel have safely arrived in Islamabad. The special evacuation was carried out via a dedicated Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight, reflecting swift diplomatic coordination and emergency response by Pakistani authorities.
According to official aviation sources, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan issued an urgent request to ensure the safe return of the stranded nationals. In response, the national carrier PIA promptly deployed an Airbus aircraft from Peshawar to Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan. This action came as Iranian airspace remained closed due to heightened security concerns stemming from the ongoing regional conflict.
Since direct air travel from Iran was not possible, the stranded pilgrims were transported by road across the border into Turkmenistan. Upon reaching Ashgabat, they boarded PIA flight PK 9552, which had already landed and was prepared to carry out the emergency airlift operation.
The special flight arrived in Islamabad late last night, safely transporting over 150 Pakistani citizens, including a number of women, children, and elderly pilgrims. The emotional scenes at Islamabad Airport saw tearful reunions as families and loved ones welcomed the returnees with relief and gratitude.
In addition to the pilgrims, the special flight also carried back families of Pakistani diplomatic staff stationed in Iran. As tensions in the region continue to escalate, precautionary measures are being taken to ensure the safety and security of all Pakistani citizens abroad.
This emergency evacuation follows a series of coordinated efforts by Pakistani authorities to manage the fallout from the Iran-Israel conflict, which has not only disrupted civilian life across the region but also posed significant travel and security challenges.
Previously, hundreds of Pakistani nationals had been repatriated via land routes through the Taftan border. However, with conditions rapidly evolving and ground routes becoming increasingly unpredictable, the decision to use Turkmenistan as a transit point allowed for quicker and safer evacuation of those still stranded.
Aviation authorities praised the cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Civil Aviation Authority, and the national airline for the success of the operation. “The timely response and logistical support ensured that we could get our citizens back home without further delay,” said an aviation official.
Foreign Office representatives reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting Pakistanis abroad, particularly in conflict zones. “We remain in close contact with all our embassies in the region and are constantly assessing the situation to initiate timely evacuation plans if needed,” said a spokesperson.
The government has also thanked the government of Turkmenistan for facilitating the safe passage of Pakistani citizens through their territory and allowing the aircraft to operate smoothly.
Meanwhile, officials continue to monitor the regional situation as fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East remain high. Diplomatic missions in neighboring countries are on alert to assist more Pakistani citizens if the need arises.
The returnees are now undergoing standard immigration and security protocols at Islamabad International Airport. Health checks and documentation reviews were conducted upon arrival to ensure everyone’s well-being and compliance with standard procedures.
Families who had been anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones expressed immense relief and praised the efforts of the Pakistani government for its swift and organized response. Many returning pilgrims spoke of the fear and uncertainty they experienced during their journey from Iran but shared heartfelt gratitude for their safe return.
As the situation in Iran remains volatile, the Pakistani government has advised citizens to postpone any non-essential travel to conflict-affected areas and to remain in contact with local embassies for updates and assistance.
This successful airlift operation not only marks a critical humanitarian achievement but also underscores Pakistan’s diplomatic agility in times of regional crisis. With over 150 lives safely returned home, the government’s commitment to its citizens has once again been reaffirmed on the global stage.
