Iran Expels Over 10,000 Pakistani Nationals, Passports cancelled

Islamabad/Tehran (The Uttam Hindu): In a significant move to curb illegal immigration and human trafficking, Iran has recently expelled over 10,000 Pakistani nationals. The passports of these individuals have also been blocked as part of the enforcement measures.

According to sources from the Pakistani Ministry of Interior, a total of 10,454 Pakistani citizens had their passports revoked. These individuals had illegally entered Iran through the Balochistan border, intending to travel to Europe. Iranian authorities arrested them and handed them over to Pakistani officials in the town of Taftan, located in Chagai district.

A report by Dawn highlighted that the arrests, which occurred between January and December 15, 2023, reflect a growing trend of illegal immigration. Young Pakistanis, seeking better opportunities, frequently attempt to reach Europe via dangerous and unauthorized routes in Balochistan. Between 2020 and 2024, over 62,000 Pakistani nationals were arrested in Iran for illegal entry, with the highest number coming from Pakistan’s Punjab province. In recent months, Iran has expelled more than 5,000 Pakistani citizens.

The borders of Chagai, Washuk, Panjgur, Kech, and Gwadar districts in Balochistan, which share a border with Iran, have emerged as key routes for illegal immigration. While migrants previously entered through Kech and Gwadar, militant attacks in these areas have led to a shift, with more individuals now using the Chagai and Washuk routes.

In response to the rising issue of illegal immigration, the Pakistani government has taken steps to block the passports of its citizens involved in such activities. Under this new policy, Pakistan has also restricted the passports of its nationals residing in various countries. In the UAE, 2,470 Pakistani passports were blocked due to alleged involvement in drug-related crimes. In Iraq, 1,500 expat passports were canceled for seven years in November. Moreover, in Saudi Arabia, 4,000 passports were blocked for seven years in October due to allegations of begging.

This decisive action by the Pakistani government aims to strengthen the country’s security and legal framework. However, the move has drawn mixed reactions from political parties and human rights organizations, with some expressing concern over its impact on the citizens involved.