Islamabad:The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has issued a travel advisory for Pakistani Zaireen regarding the closure of the Al-Sheeb border crossing between Iraq and Iran.
According to Radio Pakistan, this border crossing has been closed since the 21st of this month, suspending all passenger, vehicular, and commercial traffic until further notice.
Al-Sheeb is the only authorized land border crossing for Pakistani Zaireen traveling to Iraq through Iran. Due to the closure, Zaireen are unable to use any alternative land crossings without prior authorization from Iraqi authorities. Currently, entry into Iraq is possible via Baghdad and Najaf international airports.
The Ministry has directed all Ziarat Group Organizers (ZGOs) not to send Pakistani Zaireen to the Al-Sheeb border until it reopens or an alternative route is authorized by Iraqi authorities. Intending pilgrims are advised to confirm the latest travel arrangements with their ZGOs before starting their journey and to avoid traveling through the closed crossing.
ZGOs are required to strictly comply with these instructions and communicate this information to their registered pilgrims to prevent inconvenience, stranding of passengers, and associated logistical challenges.
