The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that 268 Pakistani nationals have been successfully repatriated from Iraq through special flights operated by Iraqi Airways. The flights landed safely in Karachi and Islamabad earlier today, as confirmed by the Foreign Ministry in a statement released on Monday.

Authorities are actively coordinating with Iraqi Airways and relevant officials in Iraq to ensure the timely and safe return of all remaining Pakistani pilgrims, or zaireen, still in Iraq.

All Pakistani zaireen in Iraq are advised to stay in close contact with the Pakistan Embassy in Baghdad, designated mandoobs, and their respective airlines for updates on travel arrangements. Iraqi Airways is currently operating daily flights on the Basra–Dubai route, which some Pakistani nationals have already utilized as an alternative travel option.

Zaireen are encouraged to be prepared for travel at short notice and to reach out to the nearest Iraqi Airways office for booking and assistance. The situation is being closely monitored by the ministry to ensure the safety of all citizens.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed the successful evacuation of 450 Pakistani pilgrims from Iran a day earlier. The government is taking necessary measures to ensure the safety of Pakistani nationals in the region, with arrangements being made for the safe evacuation of the first batch of 154 Pakistani students stranded in Iran.

The recent conflict between Iran and Israel has intensified into the most direct confrontation in their history, with large-scale strikes being exchanged. Israel's 'Operation Rising Lion' targeted Iranian military leadership, nuclear facilities, and ballistic missile production sites, resulting in casualties on both sides.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue striking Iranian targets, while Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned of a powerful response to further attacks. Iran retaliated by launching drones and missiles at Israeli targets, resulting in casualties in both countries.

Bombings have targeted various districts in Tehran, resulting in casualties among Iranian military personnel and civilians. The situation remains tense as both countries engage in conflict.