In a significant development ahead of the Arbaeen pilgrimage, the government has announced a ban on road travel for Zaireen (pilgrims) to Iraq and Iran this year.
The decision was made following extensive consultations between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Balochistan government, and key security agencies.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, in an official statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, said the restriction has been imposed purely for public safety and national security, citing regional security threats and risks along land routes.
However, the government has assured that pilgrims will still be able to perform Arbaeen through air travel. Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to arrange the maximum number of flights to accommodate Zaireen, aiming to uphold religious freedom while prioritizing the safety of citizens.
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Further details regarding flight schedules and registration procedures are expected to be announced in the coming days.