ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has commenced a special emergency operation to bring home Pakistani nationals stranded in Iran amid the escalating Iran-Israel conflict.
A special PIA aircraft departed from Peshawar and landed in Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, on Tuesday evening as part of the evacuation strategy.
With crucial support from the Pakistani embassy, 150 Pakistani citizens were transported from the Iranian city of Mashhad to Ashgabat.
These individuals had been stuck in Iran due to the sudden closure of Iranian airspace, which disrupted international flights.
PIA confirmed that these citizens will be flown back to Pakistan through a special flight departing from Ashgabat.
Following directives from the federal government, the airline has announced that more flights will be scheduled to ensure the safe return of all remaining stranded nationals.
Coordinated Operation with Government and Embassy
The operation is being conducted in close coordination with Pakistan’s diplomatic mission and relevant government agencies.
Officials praised the swift response of both the embassy and PIA, which have acted decisively to mitigate risks to citizens abroad.
PIA assured the public that further updates will be provided regarding upcoming repatriation flights.
Pakistan Reaffirms Solidarity with Iran
In a high-level meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Iranian Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam during the Pakistan International Maritime Expo.
PM Sharif strongly condemned the recent Israeli attacks on Iran and offered condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.
He expressed Pakistan’s unwavering solidarity with Iran, stating the nation stands shoulder to shoulder with its neighbor in these challenging times.
The Prime Minister also shared details of a recent conversation with Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, reaffirming Pakistan’s support for Iran at the United Nations Security Council.
He emphasized that Israeli actions are a clear violation of international law and the principles of the UN Charter.
