Pakistan has issued a formal travel advisory to its citizens regarding non-essential travel to Iran, Iraq, Lebanon and Syria due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. This advisory was released by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday citing “evolving security situations and increasing risks of regional conflict”.
As hostilities between Israel and Iran escalate, militant groups throughout the region become involved, raising fears of an all-out conflagration that threatens travelers and expatriate communities.
Given the volatile security environment and increased potential of conflict spillover, all Pakistani nationals should defer non-essential travel to Iran, Iraq, Lebanon and Syria until further notice, according to an official statement released by Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry.
Pakistan also urged Pakistani nationals living abroad to remain in close contact with its embassies and local authorities; to heed all instructions from local authorities; and take all precautions for their own personal safety.
Embassy Support Accessed
Pakistan’s diplomatic missions in Tehran, Baghdad, Beirut and Damascus have been placed on high alert in order to assist local citizens on the ground. The Foreign Ministry confirmed emergency consular services and 24-hour hotlines have been activated in order to support any evacuation or crisis needs that arise in these locations.
“We are keeping an eye on developments and are prepared to assist any Pakistanis who seek assistance,” stated a Ministry spokesperson during a press briefing held in Islamabad.
The embassies have also advised nationals to register with local missions and share up-to-date contact details so as to facilitate timely communication in the event that the situation deteriorates further.
Context: Rising Regional Hostilities
This advisory comes amid rising regional instability caused by Israel-Iran conflict that has entered its second week. Iranian missile strikes have targeted southern Israeli cities while Israeli airstrikes have struck at Iranian nuclear and military sites; many Iranian-backed militias including Hezbollah in Lebanon as well as groups in Iraq and Syria have pledged support to Tehran thereby raising concerns of an expanding multi-front war.
Countries including the US, UK and India have already evacuated non-essential diplomatic staff and issued travel warnings to their citizens.
Pakistan enjoys close cultural and religious ties with Iran and Iraq and regularly hosts Shia pilgrims visiting both nations; thus this advisory highlights Islamabad’s concern for citizen safety amidst potential airstrikes, border closures and communication blackouts.
Pakistan Reiterates Call for De-escalation
Following its advisory, Pakistan reiterated its longstanding call for restraint and dialogue, encouraging all regional powers to “exercise maximum restraint and seek diplomatic avenues to avoid further bloodshed”. In a separate statement issued by its Foreign Office, this plea urged regional powers “exercise maximum restraint while exploring diplomatic routes to avert further bloodshed”.
“Pakistan strongly believes that further military escalation would cause irreparable harm to both regional stability and global peace and security,” read a statement issued by Pakistan.
What This Means for Travelers Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has not issued any updates to their flight schedule to Tehran, Najaf or Damascus yet; however aviation authorities indicate updates may follow based on security considerations. Passengers with bookings in affected countries should consult directly with airlines and embassies prior to making travel plans.
Citizens are advised to remain alert and postpone travel plans until further notice as the region braces itself for possible escalation in coming days.