Key Takeaways
• As of June 16, 2025, Pakistan closed four of five Iran border crossings, leaving only Taftan open with strict controls.
• Iranian and Israeli airspace closed completely, halting civilian flights and forcing evacuations mainly by land routes.
• Over 20,000 Pakistanis stranded in Iran; 450+ pilgrims evacuated and 600+ foreign nationals escaped via Azerbaijan’s Astara checkpoint.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has led to a sudden and severe clampdown on cross-border movement and air travel across the region. As of June 16, 2025, Pakistan has closed all but one of its border crossings with Iran, and Iranian airspace remains shut to civilian flights. These actions have left thousands stranded, sparked mass evacuations, and created a humanitarian and economic crisis that is still unfolding. Here’s a detailed look at what’s happening, why it matters, and what affected individuals can do right now.
What’s Happening: Borders and Airspace Closed Amid Israel-Iran Conflict
On June 16, 2025, Pakistani officials announced the closure of all border crossings with Iran for an indefinite period. This decision affects all five border districts—Chaghi, Washuk, Panjgur, Kech, and Gwadar—along the 905-kilometer (560-mile) shared border. Only the Taftan crossing remains open, and even there, movement is tightly controlled and mostly limited to evacuation and repatriation of Pakistani nationals.
At the same time, Iranian airspace is closed to all civilian flights. Israel has also shut its airspace, making air travel across the region nearly impossible. These closures are direct responses to the escalating military conflict between Israel and Iran, which began on June 13, 2025, when Israel launched strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Israeli targets, leading to a rapid deterioration in regional security.
Who Is Affected: Stranded Nationals, Pilgrims, and Students
The border and airspace closures have had an immediate and severe impact on people living, working, or traveling in the region. According to embassy officials, there are over 20,000 Pakistanis currently in Iran. Many are students, pilgrims, or workers who now find themselves unable to leave the country by air or through most land routes.
- Over 450 Pakistani pilgrims have been evacuated from Iran since the closures began.
- 268 Pakistanis have been repatriated from Iraq via two special flights.
- More than 150 Pakistani students have returned from Iran in recent days.
- Over 600 foreign nationals have crossed into Azerbaijan through the temporarily reopened Astara checkpoint for onward flights.
Thousands more are still trying to leave, with widespread reports of panic, stockpiling of food and supplies, and unorganized attempts to cross borders.
How Are Evacuations Happening?
With air travel suspended, most evacuations are taking place by land. The Taftan border crossing between Pakistan and Iran is the main route for Pakistani nationals, but it is under heavy strain and could close at any time if security worsens. Azerbaijan has temporarily reopened its Astara land border, which had been closed since 2020 due to COVID-19, to allow evacuations from Iran. Over 600 foreign nationals have used this route so far.
Embassies and consulates are coordinating these evacuations, prioritizing vulnerable groups such as students, pilgrims, and families. The Pakistani embassy in Tehran and its consulates remain open for now, but families of diplomats and non-essential staff are being evacuated as a precaution.
Why Are Borders and Airspace Closed?
Pakistani officials cite security risks and the need to protect citizens from potential spillover violence as the main reasons for the border closures. Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has warned about Israel’s nuclear capabilities and expressed solidarity with Iran, but stressed that Pakistan’s involvement is limited to moral and diplomatic support.
Iranian officials, meanwhile, have stated that their strikes on Israel were intended as a warning, and that further operations could follow if the conflict escalates. The closures are seen as necessary to prevent the conflict from spreading and to keep civilians out of harm’s way.
The Human Impact: Panic, Disruption, and Uncertainty
The sudden closure of borders and airspace has created a sense of panic among those stranded in Iran and Iraq. Many are rushing to buy food, water, and other essentials, fearing that the situation could worsen. There are reports of unorganized attempts to cross borders, with people risking their safety in the hope of reaching a safe country.
For students and pilgrims, the uncertainty is especially hard. Many have limited resources and are relying on embassy support to find a way home. Families back in Pakistan are anxious for news, and embassy hotlines are overwhelmed with calls.
Economic and Trade Disruptions
The closure of the border is also having a major impact on trade between Pakistan and Iran, which is worth about $3 billion a year. While some trade is still happening through the Taftan crossing, this could stop at any time if security gets worse. Businesses on both sides of the border are bracing for losses, and supply chains for essential goods are already being disrupted.
Official Responses and Evacuation Procedures
Pakistani authorities have set up a Crisis Management Unit to help citizens stranded in Iran and Iraq. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has confirmed that the unit is working around the clock and urged Pakistanis to reconsider any travel to Iran or Iraq until the situation improves.
If you are affected, here’s what you should do:
- Contact your embassy or consulate: Register your presence and ask for guidance on evacuation plans. For Pakistanis, the Crisis Management Unit can be reached at +92 51-9207887 or [email protected].
- Monitor official advisories: Stay updated through embassy websites, official social media channels, and local news.
- Prepare for land evacuation: If advised, go to the designated border crossing (such as Taftan for Pakistanis or Astara for those heading to Azerbaijan) as instructed by authorities.
- Expect delays and possible closures: Border status can change quickly. Be ready for long waits and limited facilities.
- Follow local security instructions: Stay alert and follow all security protocols during your journey.
For more information on travel advisories and border status, you can visit the Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, which provides real-time updates and contact details for consular support.
The Regional and International Response
The crisis has drawn in neighboring countries and the wider international community. Azerbaijan’s decision to temporarily reopen its Astara border has provided a vital escape route for hundreds of foreign nationals. Other countries, including the United States 🇺🇸 and China 🇨🇳, are urging their citizens to leave the region and are working with embassies to arrange emergency departures.
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and other regional bodies are expected to meet soon to discuss ways to de-escalate the conflict and provide humanitarian support. Meanwhile, the United States 🇺🇸 and other major powers are calling for restraint and dialogue to prevent further violence.
Background: The Israel-Iran Conflict and Its Ripple Effects
The current crisis began on June 13, 2025, when Israel launched strikes on Iranian nuclear and military facilities. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks on Israeli targets. The fighting has already claimed at least 224 lives in Iran and 24 in Israel, with hundreds more wounded.
The border between Pakistan and Iran has a long and complex history. While the two countries have often cooperated on trade and security, the border has also been a source of tension, with periodic closures due to security concerns. However, the current closure is one of the most comprehensive and indefinite in recent years, reflecting the seriousness of the current conflict.
Airspace closures are not new in the region, but the simultaneous shutdown by both Israel and Iran is unprecedented. This has made it nearly impossible for people to leave the affected countries by air, forcing them to rely on limited and risky land routes.
Implications for Stakeholders
For Pakistani Nationals
- Students: Many Pakistani students in Iran are stranded, with limited access to resources and uncertain prospects for returning home. Embassy support is crucial, but capacity is stretched.
- Pilgrims: Large numbers of Pakistani pilgrims travel to Iran each year for religious reasons. The closure has left many unable to complete their journeys or return home safely.
- Workers and Families: Pakistani workers and their families in Iran and Iraq are facing job losses, separation, and uncertainty about when they can return.
For Iranian Citizens
- Travel Restrictions: Ordinary Iranians are also affected by the closure of airspace and borders, limiting their ability to travel for work, study, or family reasons.
- Economic Impact: The disruption of trade with Pakistan and other neighbors is likely to worsen economic conditions in Iran, which is already under strain from international sanctions and internal challenges.
For Regional and International Stakeholders
- Neighboring Countries: Azerbaijan’s temporary border opening has provided a lifeline for evacuations, but the situation remains fragile. Other neighbors are watching closely and preparing for possible spillover effects.
- International Community: Countries with large expatriate populations in Iran and Israel are prioritizing evacuations and urging their citizens to leave. Humanitarian organizations are warning of the risk of a larger crisis if the conflict continues.
Practical Guidance for Those Affected
If you are a Pakistani national in Iran or Iraq, or if you have family members there, here are some practical steps to take:
- Register with the Embassy: Make sure your presence is known to embassy officials so you can be included in evacuation plans.
- Keep Documents Ready: Have your passport, identification, and any necessary travel documents ready at all times.
- Pack Essentials: Prepare a small bag with food, water, medicine, and other essentials in case you need to leave quickly.
- Stay Informed: Follow official channels for updates on border openings, evacuation convoys, and security alerts.
- Avoid Unofficial Routes: Do not attempt to cross borders without official guidance, as this can be dangerous and may result in detention or worse.
What’s Next? The Future Outlook
The situation remains highly fluid. The closure of the Pakistan-Iran border is indefinite and could last until the security situation improves. Further closures or limited openings may occur depending on how the conflict develops. Embassies are expected to continue evacuation efforts, with a focus on vulnerable groups such as students, pilgrims, and families.
Diplomatic efforts are underway to de-escalate the conflict and open humanitarian corridors for those in need. However, both Israeli and Iranian officials have signaled that further military action is possible, which could prolong or worsen the current restrictions.
Trade between Pakistan and Iran is likely to suffer, with ripple effects on businesses and consumers in both countries. Humanitarian organizations are warning of the risk of a larger crisis if the conflict continues or spreads to neighboring countries.
Key Contacts and Resources
- Pakistan Crisis Management Unit: +92 51-9207887, [email protected]
- Pakistani Embassy in Tehran: Remains operational for consular support
- Azerbaijan Astara Border: Temporarily open for evacuations (check with respective embassies for the latest status)
- Embassy/Consulate Websites: Monitor for real-time updates and advisories
For the latest official information and travel advisories, visit the Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Conclusion: Staying Safe and Informed
The Israel-Iran conflict has triggered a wave of border closures and airspace shutdowns, leaving thousands stranded and forcing mass evacuations. The situation is changing rapidly, and those affected should stay in close contact with their embassies, follow official guidance, and be prepared for delays and uncertainty.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the crisis highlights the importance of having up-to-date travel documents, staying informed through official channels, and relying on embassy support during times of conflict. While the future remains uncertain, coordinated efforts by governments and international organizations are providing some hope for those caught in the middle of this crisis.
Takeaway: If you or your loved ones are affected by the border closures between Pakistan and Iran, act quickly to register with your embassy, follow official instructions, and prepare for possible evacuation. Stay informed, stay safe, and keep essential documents and supplies ready as the situation continues to evolve.
Learn Today
Taftan Crossing → A border crossing between Pakistan and Iran used mainly for evacuations amid ongoing closures.
Astara Checkpoint → A land border crossing in Azerbaijan temporarily reopened to facilitate evacuations from Iran.
Repatriation → The process of returning individuals to their home country, often during emergencies or conflicts.
Civilian Flights → Non-military air travel by commercial or private aircraft affected by airspace closures.
Crisis Management Unit → A government body coordinating emergency evacuations and assistance for stranded nationals abroad.
This Article in a Nutshell
The Israel-Iran conflict triggered border closures and airspace shutdowns, stranding thousands. Pakistan limits crossings, Iran blocks flights, forcing land evacuations amid growing humanitarian and economic crises in the region.
— By VisaVerge.com
