ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has issued a fresh travel advisory cautioning its citizens against travelling to Iran, urging them to postpone all non-essential visits due to growing safety and security concerns.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Foreign Office advised Pakistani nationals to avoid unnecessary travel to Iran until the situation shows signs of improvement. The advisory, officials said, has been issued purely as a precautionary measure to protect public safety.
Pakistanis currently living in Iran have been instructed to remain highly alert, limit their movement, and stay informed as the security situation continues to evolve. Authorities stressed the need for vigilance and situational awareness during this period of uncertainty.
Contact with Diplomatic Missions Urged
The Foreign Office also underscored the importance of maintaining close communication with Pakistan’s diplomatic missions in Iran. Citizens were advised to keep emergency contact information accessible and promptly notify embassy or consular officials in case of any urgent issues.
To assist nationals, contact details for the Pakistani Embassy in Tehran, along with consulates in Zahedan and Mashhad, have been shared. Officials confirmed that these missions remain operational and ready to provide assistance throughout the advisory period.
Advisory Under Review
“For the safety and well-being of Pakistani nationals, all non-essential travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran should be avoided until conditions stabilise,” a spokesperson said, adding that the advisory will be reviewed regularly as developments unfold.
Unrest Escalates in Iran
The advisory comes amid intensifying anti-government protests across Iran. US President Donald Trump has warned that the country faces “serious trouble,” suggesting that a violent crackdown on demonstrators could trigger a response from Washington. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Trump described the situation as volatile and dangerous, saying protests had spread to cities previously thought unlikely to witness unrest.
“Iran is in big trouble,” Trump said, warning authorities against using force. “If they start shooting, we’ll start shooting too,” he added, expressing concern for civilian safety.
Iranian Leadership Pushes Back
In a televised address, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei dismissed the protests as a foreign-backed conspiracy and called on the nation to remain united. He accused demonstrators of acting on behalf of the United States and alleged American involvement in destabilising Iran.
His speech coincided with reports and videos showing clashes in several cities, with fires set and confrontations between protesters and security forces. According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), at least 62 people including 48 protesters and 14 members of the security forces have been killed since demonstrations began on December 28.
