Immigration officials have confirmed that 696 Pakistani nationals, including 59 students, have returned from Iran through the Gabd-Rimdan border crossing. This brings the total number of repatriated individuals to 7,519 since June 12, with the process still ongoing. Additionally, 342 Iranian nationals have crossed back into Iran in the past three days.

All returnees have been safely sent to their hometowns, and more arrivals are expected in the coming days. According to official data from the Chagai district administration, 1,814 individuals entered Pakistan from Iran on Friday, including pilgrims, students, tourists, deportees, and a few foreigners who all used the Taftan border crossing. The district administration has provided them with essential support such as food and shelter.

Deputy Commissioner of Chagai, Atta-ul-Munim Baloch, reported that among the returnees were 428 pilgrims, 655 students, 566 tourists, 160 deportees, and five foreigners.

Impact of Iran-Israel conflict

The repatriation process was initiated following the escalation of the Israel-Iran military conflict. Israel has conducted extensive strikes on Iran since June 13, targeting military bases, nuclear sites, and residential areas, resulting in the deaths of over 430 individuals in Iran. In retaliation, Iran has launched drones and missiles at Israel, causing at least 24 casualties.

The ongoing conflict has affected daily life in Balochistan, with trade and operations disrupted due to the closure of Pakistan-Iran border crossings. This has led to a scarcity of Iranian petrol in the province, forcing many fuel outlets to shut down and causing a fuel shortage that has impacted transport fares. Additionally, there is a looming threat of an LPG gas shortage, which is expected to result in price hikes. The shortage of Iranian goods in Quetta's markets has already caused prices to double, prompting citizens to call for immediate government intervention to control inflation and ensure the availability of essential goods.