ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is closely monitoring the evolving situation in neighbouring Iran and has underscored that it does not want instability there, as any major upheaval could have serious implications for Pakistan’s security, economy and regional interests, official sources said.
Officials said Islamabad recognises that sections of the Iranian population are protesting against inflation, unemployment and rising living costs. However, there is concern within Pakistan’s security and diplomatic circles that dissidents based abroad may be attempting to exploit the unrest and steer it in a particular political direction.
“Pakistan is very cautious. This is Iran’s internal matter, but we are closely following the situation,” a senior government official said, adding that Pakistan has no interest in chaos in a neighbouring country. Prolonged instability in Iran, the official noted, could have spillover effects across the region, with Pakistan likely to be among the first to feel the impact.
In view of the situation, Pakistan has issued a travel advisory for Iran and activated contingency planning to assist its nationals should conditions deteriorate. The advisory follows reports of violence in several Iranian cities, temporary internet disruptions and heightened security measures.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran, Mudassir Tipu, urged Pakistani nationals to strictly comply with Iranian immigration and travel requirements. He advised travellers to ensure they possess valid visas or exit stamps and said students should obtain clearance certificates from their universities to avoid travel delays. He also cautioned those travelling by road to reach border points well before closing times and plan onward travel inside Pakistan in advance.
The Foreign Office reiterated its appeal for Pakistani nationals to adhere to the travel advisory, assuring that authorities remain available to provide assistance.
The unrest in Iran has drawn sharp reactions from the United States and Israel, with Washington openly backing calls for political change. US President Donald Trump has warned of possible military action if Iranian security forces use lethal force against protesters. Tehran has responded strongly, with Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warning that any attack on Iran would prompt retaliation against Israel and US military targets in the region.
Analysts caution against assuming imminent regime change, noting that Iran has experienced several protest movements over the past decades. They warn that prolonged instability could disrupt cross-border trade, complicate border management in Balochistan and increase refugee pressures for Pakistan.
Officials said Pakistan’s priority remains regional stability. “Pakistan has no desire to see Iran weakened or fractured,” a diplomat said, stressing that instability in the region rarely remains confined within national borders.