PM Shehbaz reviews security, orders safe return of Pakistanis from Iran

PM Shehbaz held a security meeting to assess Pakistan’s internal and regional security amid escalating tensions following the assassination of Iran’s leader Ayatollah Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes.

According to reports, the session was attended by senior federal ministers, military leadership and intelligence chiefs. 

They reviewed the evolving situation in the Middle East and its implications for regional stability and Pakistan’s own security environment, including developments in Afghanistan.

According to an official statement, participants were briefed on the country’s internal security arrangements and ongoing counter-terror operations along the western border. Officials also reviewed measures to protect Pakistani citizens abroad amid ongoing war.

On the PM’s instructions, the FO provided a detailed briefing on efforts to evacuate Pakistani citizens from Iran. 

According to senior officials, the evacuation will be facilitated through Azerbaijan to ensure safe return of Pakistanis from Iran.

Moreover, Shehbaz has also directed authorities to implement “comprehensive and effective security measures” across Pakistan given the current regional climate. 

He urged coordination among all federal and provincial institutions for effective implementation of security measures.

The security review came after protests erupted nationwide after reports of Khamenei’s death, with clashes in major cities including Karachi resulting in multiple deaths.

In addition to the security meeting, Shehbaz held a separate session with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi earlier in the day to discuss domestic law and order and national preparedness.