Arbaeen Road Travel Halted: Pakistani Pilgrims Barred from Entering Iran and Iraq

🚧 Pakistan Bans Road Travel for Arbaeen Pilgrims The government of Pakistan has banned overland travel for pilgrims heading to Iran and Iraq for Arbaeen, citing serious security concerns in the Balochistan region. Pilgrimage will now only be permitted by air, with no access allowed through land routes. The decision followed high-level consultations involving national security stakeholders and led to the launch of special flight operations to facilitate pilgrims. Special air travel arrangements are scheduled between August 8–11 for departure to Najaf and August 18–23 for return flights. Additional commercial flights are also being arranged to manage increased demand. 🏛️ Arbaeen Travel Policy Updates In a recent trilateral meeting between Pakistan, Iran, and Iraq, the three countries agreed to strengthen travel arrangements for pilgrims. The focus includes smoother transportation, security protocols, and health facilities during Arbaeen. Starting January 1, 2026, Pakistani citizens visiting Iraq for pilgrimage must travel in registered group delegations managed by authorized tour operators. Solo travel will only be allowed via a special visa issued by the Iraqi embassy. A joint coordinating committee will be formed to streamline the pilgrimage process and monitor compliance with the new framework. ✈️ New Supportive Measures for Pilgrims To ease the journey for pilgrims: Pakistan and Iran have agreed to keep their shared border open 24/7 during Muharram and Arbaeen. Free accommodation and meals will be provided to Pakistani visitors in cities like Mashhad. Iran has announced a visa fee waiver for Pakistani pilgrims traveling between August 4–19, 2025, though a small insurance fee still applies. Pilgrims must still hold a valid Iraqi visa and will be allowed to cross into Iraq via Iran by bus. 🗣️ Public Reaction: “We Deserve Better Communication” The sudden announcement has sparked frustration among many would-be pilgrims. Several expressed anger and disappointment, especially those who had already made travel bookings or applied for road permits. “The government should have informed us in advance so that our savings would not be wasted,” said one disheartened traveler. Many are now struggling to secure air tickets on short notice, while some are left with non-refundable losses from earlier road-based travel plans.