Pakistan is carefully watching the unfolding situation in neighbouring Iran, as officials fear that any serious instability there could negatively affect Pakistan’s security, economy and regional position. Islamabad has made it clear that it does not want unrest or chaos in Iran and hopes the situation remains under control.
Government sources say Pakistan understands that many Iranians are protesting due to economic problems such as inflation, unemployment and rising living costs. However, there is concern within Pakistan’s security and diplomatic circles that opposition groups based outside Iran may be trying to intensify the unrest and steer it in a specific political direction.
A senior official said Pakistan considers the developments an internal matter of Iran but is still monitoring the situation closely. The official added that prolonged instability in Iran could spill over into the region, with Pakistan likely to feel the effects early due to its shared border and close regional links.
In response to the situation, Pakistan has issued a travel advisory for Iran and has started contingency planning to help Pakistani nationals if conditions worsen. This step comes amid reports of violence in some Iranian cities, temporary internet disruptions and increased security measures.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran, Muhammad Mudassir Tipu, advised Pakistani citizens to strictly follow immigration and travel rules. He said those travelling from Iran must have valid visas or exit stamps on their passports. The students were also advised to obtain clearance certificates from their universities to avoid travel problems.
The ambassador further urged travellers using road routes to reach border points well before closing times and to arrange their onward travel inside Pakistan in advance. He assured that the embassy remains available to assist Pakistani nationals when needed.
Meanwhile, the unrest in Iran has drawn strong reactions from the United States and Israel, both of which have openly supported calls for political change. US President Donald Trump has even warned of possible military action if Iranian security forces use force against protesters.
Iranian leaders strongly rejected these statements. Iran’s parliament speaker warned that any attack on Iran would lead to retaliation against Israel and US military bases in the region, raising fears of wider escalation.
Despite rising tensions, experts caution against assuming that the protests will lead to major political change. An Iran-based international affairs analyst said that while most protesters are peaceful citizens raising genuine economic concerns, a small group appears to be armed and possibly supported by foreign elements, which has made the situation more complex.
Analysts warn that continued unrest in Iran could disrupt cross-border trade, worsen border security issues in Balochistan, increase smuggling and create refugee pressures for Pakistan. A broader regional conflict involving the US or Israel could also put Pakistan in a difficult diplomatic position.
Officials say Pakistan’s main goal remains stability in the region. A senior diplomat said Pakistan does not want to see Iran weakened or divided, adding that regional experience shows that unrest in one country rarely stays confined within its borders.
