- Envoy encourages the student to complete all formalities before departure.
- Tipu says the embassy is in contact with Iranian border officials.
- Urging Pakistani nationals in Iran to follow advice issued by FO.
At least 72 Pakistani students have returned home amid violent protests in various parts of Iran, Pakistan’s ambassador to Iran, Muhammad Mudassir Tipu, confirmed on Sunday.
Talking with Pakinomist newsthe ambassador said: “72 students from the University of Hormozgan [a leading state university in Bandar Abbas] has left for Pakistan today.”
The Pakistani embassy in Tehran was providing all possible assistance to the Pakistani students, he said, adding that they were in touch with Iranian border authorities to ensure a smooth and safe return of the students.
Protests in Iran began on December 28 in response to rising prices before turning against the rulers who have ruled the country since 1979. Tehran has accused the US and Israel of fomenting the unrest.
Iran’s police chief Ahmad-Reza Radan said security forces had stepped up efforts to confront “rioters”.
Meanwhile, Tipu said Pakistani students from Zanjan University would return home soon.
“All Pakistani citizens in Iran should follow the guidance issued by our foreign ministry,” he urged.
The ambassador emphasized: “Students who wish to return must complete all formalities before departure.”
Wi-Fi is down in Iran and phone services are not working properly, he said, advising Pakistani nationals in the country to contact the embassy through landline numbers.
The ambassador also advised those traveling by road to arrive at the border at least four hours before it closes and ensure passports are properly stamped.
Separately, he took to his X-handle and wrote: “All Pakistani nationals traveling to Pakistan from Iran must ensure that they have either a valid visa or an exit stamp (Kharooj) on their passport.”
He said that the students can ensure that they have clearance certificates from their universities.
“Otherwise, the Iranian immigration authorities will not allow them to leave until they complete the necessary procedures,” he added.
For their safety and security, Pakistani nationals are advised to avoid all unnecessary travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until conditions improve.
Late last week, Pakistan’s foreign ministry had advised Pakistani nationals “currently residing in Iran to exercise extreme caution, remain vigilant, minimize non-essential travel and maintain regular contact with the Pakistani missions”.
