Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif Orders Safe Return Of Citizens From Iran

On February 28, 2026, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure the safe return of Pakistani citizens stranded in Iran, following a significant escalation in regional tensions due to Iranian missile attacks on the UAE and other countries. During a high-level security meeting, Sharif emphasized the need for comprehensive safety measures, stating, "Pakistan's people and armed forces are always ready to protect the country's security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity." The Prime Minister's instructions included immediate communication with the Azerbaijani government to facilitate the safe passage of these citizens back to Pakistan. This comes amidst reports of heightened security alerts and advisories issued by the Pakistani embassy in Iran, urging citizens to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel due to the deteriorating situation, which has seen severe internet disruptions and increased military activity in Tehran, as noted by Ambassador Mudasir Teepo who described the situation as "alarming" and advised against unnecessary movements.