Quetta:
In response to growing security problems linked to the climbing of regional tensions, the government of Balutchistan has officially closed all border passages with Iran in the districts of Gwadar and Panjgur, suspended both the transport of pedestrians and fuel until further notice.
Development comes as the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ishaq Dar, confirmed that 450 Pakistani pilgrims were evacuated from Iran earlier in the day, with more to follow the neighboring country as well as Iraq.
According to official updates published today by various assistant commissioners through the province, these measures are taken as a precaution to protect public security within the framework of uncertainty resulting from the situation of deterioration of neighboring Iran.
A declaration of the office of the sub-commissioner of Gwadar confirmed the closure of the border corridor of Gabd-Kalato 250. “According to the provincial guidelines, the Gabd-Kalato crossing was sealed indefinitely. Citizens are invited to remain informed and to contact the local authorities to obtain advice,” said the press release.
Similarly, the administration of the Panjgur district announced the suspension of all movements through the Iranian border roads, including the complete prohibition of fuel transport. Managers have cited the instability potential in Iran and the wider region as the main motivation behind the movement.
“The decision aims to prevent any unforeseen incident due to international tensions,” said the Panjgur DC, stressing that public cooperation is vital during this period. The declaration called on residents to avoid unnecessary trips and to remain vigilant.
These restrictions are involved as residents of Balutchistan are already faced with fuel shortages and increasing concerns concerning regional security, in particular the light of recent geopolitical developments involving Iran.
Meanwhile, in a position on X this afternoon, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Vice-Prime Minister Ishaq Dar declared that the government took all the necessary measures to ensure the security and well-being of Pakistani nationals.
Friday, Israel launched an air offensive targeting Iran, hitting nuclear installations and killing several commanders and scientists.
The aggression has been described as an attempt to prevent Tehran from developing a nuclear weapon, an allegation that Iran has refused on several occasions, emphasizing the fact that its uranium enrichment program is only for civil use.