ISLAMABAD:
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has said that starting January 1, 2026, Zaireen will only be allowed to travel to Iraq under officially registered group organisers.
Pakistan, Iran and Iraq have agreed to establish a joint working group to streamline travel arrangements for pilgrims, following a trilateral conference of the countries’ interior ministers held in Tehran on Monday.
Naqvi, speaking at the meeting, thanked his Iranian counterpart Eskandar Momeni for hosting the conference at Pakistan’s request, highlighting the growing need to address issues faced by pilgrims visiting Iran and Iraq.
“Pilgrims travelling to Iraq and Iran are of great importance to us,” he said. “This trilateral forum will pave the way for enhanced facilities and support.”
He said the registration process for “Zaireen Group Organisers” has begun, and only individuals granted special embassy-issued visas will be permitted to travel independently.
“The organisers will be responsible for ensuring pilgrims’ safe return,” he said. “This system will help curb illegal travel and overstay issues.”
Naqvi also praised both the Iraqi and Iranian governments for their efforts in managing large pilgrim crowds. “Taking care of millions of Zaireen is a significant challenge, and both interior ministers are fulfilling this duty effectively,” he said.
He commended Iran’s leadership during recent hostilities, saying, “Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stood firm and led with courage. We congratulate him and the Iranian people on this victory.”
Naqvi reiterated Pakistan’s support for Iran during its recent conflict with Israel. “Pakistan unequivocally condemned the attack on Iran and supported its right to self-defence,” he said, adding that both the Pakistani people and government stood firmly by Iran’s side.
