Pakistan Bars Pilgrims From Using Closed Iran-Iraq Border Crossing Amid Security Crackdown

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has instructed pilgrimage tour operators—known as Ziarat Group Organizers (ZGOs)—to suspend dispatching Pakistani pilgrims through the Al-Sheeb border crossing between Iran and Iraq, following Baghdad’s decision to close the strategic route temporarily.

The closure, announced by an Iraqi border official on October 21, is part of broader efforts by Iraqi authorities to strengthen security protocols and implement advanced detection systems aimed at preventing the smuggling of restricted items across the frontier. Passenger traffic, commercial vehicles, and cargo trucks have all been barred from using the crossing since then.

Every year, thousands of Pakistani Shia pilgrims—referred to as Zaireen—travel between sacred sites located in both Iran and Iraq. These journeys typically involve transit through multiple border points, with Al-Sheeb serving as the sole designated land passage for travelers heading into Iraq via Iran under official arrangements.

In its statement, the Pakistani ministry clarified that no alternative land routes are currently authorized for such pilgrimages without explicit approval from Iraqi officials. Until further notice, pilgrims may only enter Iraq through Baghdad and Najaf international airports.

“Until the Al-Sheeb crossing resumes operations or another approved land route becomes available, all ZGOs must refrain from sending pilgrims toward this border post,” said the press release. “Travelers are strongly advised to confirm updated itineraries with their respective tour groups prior to departure.”

The ministry emphasized strict adherence to these directives, urging ZGOs to inform registered pilgrims promptly to avoid disruptions, including delays, cancellations, or unsafe overcrowding at unauthorized crossings.

This development occurs against the backdrop of escalating regional tensions linked to ongoing conflicts involving Iran, the United States, and allied forces. Earlier this year, drone strikes attributed to various parties intensified concerns over cross-border security risks.

In related moves, Iraq also sealed off the Shalamcheh border point with Iran in September as a preventive measure after attacks targeting Saudi territories were reportedly traced back to areas near the Iraqi border.

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