Defence Minister Khawaja Asif informed the National Assembly that the government has instructed the Balochistan administration to initiate direct flights from Quetta to Iran and Iraq, facilitating safe travel for Pakistani pilgrims planning to attend Arbaeen rituals this year.
This move comes in response to a recently imposed restriction on overland travel due to heightened security risks. Each year, thousands of Shia Muslims from Pakistan embark on a journey to Karbala in Iraq, passing through Iran, to observe Arbaeen. The religious event signifies the end of the 40-day mourning period following Ashura, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain in the Battle of Karbala.
However, late last month, the government officially banned road travel to Iran and Iraq for Arbaeen, citing potential terrorist threats aimed at targeting large groups of pilgrims. The decision sparked widespread criticism from political leaders and provincial authorities, particularly in Sindh, as well as from religious and community stakeholders.
While addressing the National Assembly, the defence minister explained that the travel restrictions were a necessary precaution to prevent any untoward incident. “Security intelligence highlighted credible threats to pilgrim convoys. To protect citizens, we made the difficult but essential decision to restrict road movement,” he stated.
To ensure pilgrims can still participate in the sacred journey, the federal government authorised the Balochistan government to arrange direct flights from Quetta. The first such flight has been approved by Iran, and further discussions are ongoing to expand the number of flights.
Additionally, arrangements have been made for transportation within Iran and Iraq. Pilgrims arriving via air will be provided with services to reach religious sites without hindrance. The minister also mentioned that private airlines were invited through public advertisements to begin operations on this route. Licensed carriers have been granted full permission to operate, and chartered flights have also received approval to enhance travel capacity.
Stakeholders in the aviation sector have been encouraged to seize this opportunity to serve pilgrims and contribute to a safe and efficient transit system. The minister underscored the importance of private participation in ensuring smooth logistics under the newly imposed travel framework.
He further noted that the topic was discussed during a recent high-level meeting with Iranian leadership, resulting in Iran allowing an additional flight for Pakistani pilgrims.
Reiterating the government’s commitment, the defence minister assured that all possible efforts are being made to provide safe, timely, and comfortable transportation for Arbaeen participants. He expressed hope that the new arrangements would adequately accommodate the religious needs of the community while maintaining public safety.
