Task Force Addresses Pilgrim Travel Issues to Iran and Iraq

ISLAMABAD, July 4, 2025 (APP): A pivotal meeting of the special task force aimed at resolving challenges faced by pilgrims traveling to Iran and Iraq convened today under the chairmanship of Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. This initiative, directed by Prime Minister [Name], seeks to enhance safety and travel facilities for the thousands of pilgrims who undertake this journey annually.

Key officials in attendance included Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs; Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis; and Talal Chaudhry, Minister of State for Interior. During the meeting, significant decisions were made regarding the improvement of facilities and security for these travelers.

The Civil Aviation Authority provided an update indicating a substantial increase in the number of weekly flights to Iran, rising from six to fifteen. Additionally, for the upcoming Arbaeen pilgrimage, 107 special flights to Iraq have been arranged. The task force is also exploring the possibility of launching a ferry service in the future to further facilitate pilgrim travel.

Minister Naqvi underscored the importance of safeguarding pilgrims, stating, “The safety of pilgrims is most precious.” The task force plans to reassess the security situation following Ashura, which will inform decisions regarding overland travel to Iraq for Arbaeen.

In a bid to enhance regulation, it was agreed that a new system for Group Organizers will be implemented starting January 1, 2025, effectively phasing out the existing Salar System. By January 1, 2026, only registered Group Organizers will be permitted to manage pilgrimages. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and other relevant authorities have been directed to implement stringent measures to prevent illegal travel under the guise of pilgrimage.

So far, the task force has received 1,413 applications for the registration of Group Organizers, with the scrutiny process currently underway. The meeting also included representatives from the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Information, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, alongside senior officials from the FIA, Civil Aviation, Balochistan government, and various law enforcement agencies who participated via Zoom.

This initiative reflects a broader commitment by the government to ensure that the rights and safety of pilgrims are prioritized, especially as the number of annual pilgrimages continues to grow. With the upcoming religious observances, the task force aims to streamline processes and ensure the safe transit of all pilgrims to their destinations.