Diplomatic Mission Facilitates Safe Return Amid Communication Blackout
At least 72 Pakistani students have been successfully evacuated from Iran and returned home as violent protests continue to grip multiple regions of the country. Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran, Muhammad Mudassir Tipu, confirmed the repatriation on Sunday, stating the students from the University of Hormozgan in Bandar Abbas had departed.
The Pakistan embassy in Tehran provided comprehensive assistance to facilitate their journey. Ambassador Tipu emphasized that officials are in direct contact with Iranian border authorities to ensure a smooth and secure passage for all returning citizens.
Formalities and Clearance Critical for Departure
The ambassador issued a stern advisory for other students and nationals wishing to leave. He stressed the absolute necessity of completing all university formalities and obtaining proper clearance certificates before attempting to travel.
“Students wishing to return must complete all formalities before departure,” Tipu stated. He further warned that without valid exit stamps or visas, Iranian immigration authorities would block travel until all procedures were fulfilled.
Protests Trigger Nationwide Disruption
The civil unrest in Iran, which began on December 28 initially over economic grievances, has escalated into broader anti-government demonstrations. Iranian authorities have accused foreign powers of instigating the turmoil and have deployed security forces to confront what police chief Ahmad-Reza Radan termed “rioters.”
The situation has severely impacted infrastructure. Ambassador Tipu reported that Wi-Fi services are down and telephone networks are unreliable across Iran. He advised Pakistani nationals to contact the embassy using landline numbers and urged those traveling by road to arrive at the border crossing at least four hours before closure.
Foreign Ministry Issues Safety Advisory
In light of the deteriorating conditions, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a safety advisory for its citizens in Iran. The advisory urges Pakistani nationals to:
- Exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant.
- Minimize all non-essential travel within Iran.
- Maintain regular contact with Pakistani diplomatic missions.
- Avoid all unnecessary travel to Iran until conditions stabilize.
Ambassador Tipu indicated that arrangements are also being made for Pakistani students at Zanjan University to return home soon. The embassy continues to monitor the situation closely, prioritizing the safety and security of the Pakistani community in Iran.
