Lebanon to Help Evacuate Pakistani Pilgrims From Syria

Amid growing violence and security risks, over 1,000 Pakistani nationals, including 260 pilgrims, are stranded in Syria, with officials from the Pakistani Foreign Office actively working on evacuation plans.

The Pakistan embassy in Damascus confirmed that efforts are underway to safely repatriate all Pakistanis in the country. However, with Damascus Airport currently closed, the Foreign Office has stated that evacuation assistance will be provided once the airport reopens.

In response to the urgent situation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the formation of an evacuation plan to bring back stranded citizens through neighboring countries.

On Monday, the Prime Minister’s Office revealed that the first group of 81 pilgrims, who had return tickets, was sent to Beirut for onward travel. The embassy has requested special flight arrangements to facilitate the return of more Pakistanis.

Additionally, Prime Minister Sharif reached out to Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati to seek Lebanon’s assistance in the evacuation. Mikati assured Pakistan that Lebanon would issue the necessary visas for the stranded Pakistanis and facilitate their safe passage.

To support the evacuation process, the Pakistani embassy in Damascus will set up a helpline and an information desk, with a 24-hour crisis management team in place to assist citizens until the situation stabilizes.