Iran-Iraq Land Border Closure Disrupts Travel Plans for Pakistani Pilgrims

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani pilgrims travelling to Iran and Iraq have been advised to review their travel arrangements after the closure of an important land border crossing between the two neighbouring countries raised concerns about cross-border movement.

Iraq closed the Sheeb border crossing with Iran to passengers, vehicles and commercial trucks on October 21. The closure was ordered for security reasons while authorities reviewed security arrangements at the crossing. The duration of the suspension was not immediately clear.

The development comes as Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has urged pilgrims, known as zaireen, to verify their flight arrangements before departure and prepare alternative travel plans.

The ministry’s October 22 advisory specifically highlighted journeys involving Tehran, Mashhad and Najaf, advising pilgrims to confirm every Iran-Iraq flight sector in advance. Travellers have also been encouraged to avoid relying on unconfirmed airline connections.

Registered Ziarat Group Organisers have been instructed to prepare alternative transport arrangements, maintain contingency funds and plan for additional accommodation and food expenses in case of flight cancellations or delays.

Iran and Iraq are important destinations for Pakistani pilgrims visiting religious shrines. Many travellers combine visits to both countries in a single journey, making reliable transport connections essential to their itineraries.

The border closure and travel advisory underline the importance of checking the latest arrangements before departure. Pilgrims should confirm their individual flight bookings with airlines and travel organisers and establish alternative plans where necessary.

The ministry’s advisory does not prohibit travel to Iran or Iraq. However, uncertainty surrounding transport arrangements means pilgrims should remain in contact with their group organisers and verify any changes affecting their routes.

Authorities have not confirmed when the Sheeb crossing will reopen. Travellers should therefore check current border and flight information before making their journeys.