In a major policy shift, the interior ministers of Pakistan, Iran, and Iraq have agreed to implement a new regulatory framework to manage and secure pilgrimage travel. The landmark agreement was finalized during a high-level trilateral summit in Tehran, aimed at improving the pilgrimage experience and addressing issues such as illegal entry, overstays, and logistical challenges. Under the new policy, which takes effect on January 1, 2026, Pakistani pilgrims will no longer be allowed to travel to Iraq individually. Instead, all travel must take place under the supervision of registered Group Organizers, who will also be responsible for ensuring the pilgrims’ return. Only individuals issued special visas by the Iraqi embassy will be exempt from this requirement.
The new travel system has received full endorsement from both Iran and Iraq. A joint working group will now be established to coordinate efforts between the three countries, ensuring secure and seamless travel for millions of pilgrims—especially during peak religious events like Arbaeen. Speaking at the conference, Pakistan’s Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi thanked Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni for organizing the summit and emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to improving the pilgrimage experience. Naqvi stated that the group-based travel model would prevent illegal activities and improve administrative efficiency.
Naqvi also used the occasion to congratulate Iran on its recent military success, lauding the leadership of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian. He reiterated Pakistan’s firm support for Iran’s right to self-defense and condemned Israeli aggression as unlawful and unprovoked. Furthermore, he praised the governments of Iran and Iraq for their exemplary management of large-scale pilgrimages, reaffirming Pakistan’s dedication to regional cooperation in religious tourism.
The conference was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Iranian Deputy Interior Minister Ali Akbar Pourjamshidian, Senior Advisor Nader Yar Ahmadi, Iran’s Ambassador to Pakistan Amiri Moghaddam, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran Muhammad Mudassir Tipu, Pakistan’s Interior Secretary Khurram Agha, and senior representatives from Iraq’s Ministry of Interior. The summit marked a significant step forward in trilateral collaboration, underscoring the shared religious and cultural ties that bind the three nations. It laid the groundwork for safer, more organized, and mutually beneficial pilgrim travel in the years to come.
