ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has recalled some of its diplomats, non-essential staff, and their families from Tehran due to the escalating Israel-Iran conflict and the changing regional situation.
According to a senior official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the move was prompted by the on-going war and heightened tensions in the region. However, the official clarified that the Pakistani Em-bassy and Consulate in Tehran will continue their operations.
The official also confirmed that the staff members identified as non-essential have been instructed to return to Pakistan along with their families. Arrangements have been made to facilitate the safe return of the staff.
Earlier, a total of 78 Pakistanis, including 47 students, returned to Pakistan through the Taftan border on Tuesday, raising the total number of repatriated citizens to 1,200. The Pakistani nationals, compris-ing mostly pilgrims, were stranded in Iran due to the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict.
According to media, during the last two days, 987 pilgrims and students have been safely brought back. The returnees have travelled on 37 buses, with many more expected to return soon.
On Monday, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), in close coordination with Iraqi Airways, successfully facilitated the repatriation of 268 Pakistani nationals through two special flights from Basra to Karachi and Islamabad. Both flights have safely arrived in Pakistan. –Agencies
