Convoy of stranded Pakistani students leaves Tehran amid regional tensions

A convoy of six buses carrying Pakistani students who were stranded in Iran due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has departed from Tehran and is en route to the Taftan border, according to diplomatic sources.

The Pakistani nationals, including students, traders, and pilgrims, had been stuck in Iran after cross-border clashes between Iran and Israel and uncertainty surrounding air routes amid escalating regional tensions. 

Diplomatic officials confirmed that the convoy will be received at the Taftan border between Pakistan and Iran, which is expected to open after 4 pm today to facilitate the repatriation.

On Sunday, at least 180 Pakistani citizens managed to cross into Pakistan, including 168 pilgrims and 12 traders. Efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe repatriation of all remaining Pakistani nationals in Iran.

Read: Pakistan's airspace becomes strategic route amid Iran-Israel conflict

Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran, Mudassar Tipu, who is currently in Pakistan for official meetings, confirmed via social media that the Pakistani embassy in Tehran, along with consulates in Mashhad and Zahedan, is actively providing assistance to its citizens.

He also shared contact numbers and email addresses of embassy and consulate staff, as well as a dedicated support unit at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad.

Meanwhile, security concerns remain high. The Ministry of Interior has advised all Pakistani citizens to refrain from travelling to Iran due to the volatile situation triggered by Israeli military actions. Both crossing points in Panjgur, which borders Iran, have been closed indefinitely, and all direct flights between the two countries remain suspended.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that all necessary diplomatic and logistical measures are in place to support Pakistani nationals stranded in the region.