Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced that all Pakistani pilgrims traveling to Iran and Iraq will be registered through a formal system starting January 1, 2026.
Speaking at a trilateral conference in Tehran with Iranian and Iraqi officials, Naqvi said specialized agencies will be responsible for the transportation and safe return of pilgrims under a new regulatory framework.
The conference led to a unanimous agreement between Pakistan, Iran, and Iraq to establish a joint working group aimed at addressing long-standing challenges faced by pilgrims and improving coordination among the three countries.
“Pilgrims visiting Iran and Iraq are of great importance to us. We are committed to providing them with maximum facilities,” said Naqvi.
He emphasized that only pilgrims registered through licensed group organizers will be allowed to travel to Iraq. These organizers will be fully responsible for the repatriation of all group members, ensuring that no pilgrim overstays or travels without authorization.
New visa and registration system introduced
Under the new system, only those granted a special visa by the Iraqi Embassy will be permitted to travel. The registration process for group organizers has already begun, and Iran and Iraq have expressed full support for Pakistan’s revamped model for managing pilgrimages.
Naqvi made it clear that individual travel will not be permitted, and that no Pakistani will be allowed to live separately from their registered group. He instructed authorities to identify and stop illegal travelers, and urged strict enforcement to prevent overstays or unauthorized movement.
“We are taking every measure to ensure that the pilgrims who receive visas return safely to Pakistan,” he said. “Such groups will be obligated to bring back every pilgrim who travels under their supervision.”
Pakistan stands by Iran amid regional tensions
Addressing regional security matters, the minister condemned Israel’s recent attack on Iran, reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for Iran’s right to self-defense.
“Pakistan has always raised its voice in support of Iran at every forum,” Naqvi said. “We stood with the Iranian people during difficult times and will continue to do so. Pakistan and Iran are brothers — and will remain brothers.”
He also extended gratitude to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and the Iraqi government for their efforts in accommodating the millions of pilgrims who visit their countries annually.
Naqvi acknowledged that managing such large crowds poses significant logistical challenges and lauded both countries for their commendable efforts in hosting pilgrims.
