Pakistan Temporarily Closes Key Border Crossings with Iran Amid Regional Tensions
QUETTA – Pakistani authorities have temporarily suspended pedestrian traffic at several major border crossings with Iran due to ongoing regional developments, officials in Balochistan province confirmed on Sunday.
The affected crossings include Taftan in Chaghi district, Gabd-Rimdan in Gwadar district, Chedgi and Jirrak in Panjgur district, and Rideeg Mand in Kech district. These points serve as vital hubs for local trade and cross-border movement between the two neighboring countries.
Jawad Ahmed Zehri, assistant commissioner of Gwadar, stated that the suspension of pedestrian traffic at Gabd-Rimdan is a precautionary measure in response to recent developments in the Middle East. However, trade operations at the crossing remain active, and Pakistani citizens currently in Iran will be allowed to return home through this route.
Similarly, in Chaghi district, Assistant Commissioner Naveed Ahmed confirmed that the Taftan border crossing has also been closed for foot traffic. Trade and customs activities at Taftan, however, continue to operate as usual.
Officials in Kech and Panjgur districts also reported the temporary closure of the Chedgi, Jirrak, and Mand Radig crossings for pedestrian use.
The decision is expected to impact daily wage earners, small-scale traders, and families who regularly travel across the border for personal and economic reasons. Locally, these routes are used to exchange small goods such as fruits, vegetables, and household items.
Despite the current restrictions, trade ties between Pakistan and Iran remain strong. In the last fiscal year, bilateral trade between the two nations reached approximately $2.8 billion. Both countries have agreed to expand this figure significantly, with a target of increasing it to $10 billion in the coming years under a formal memorandum of understanding.
Additionally, Iran continues to supply around 100 megawatts of electricity to several border towns in Balochistan, contributing to regional energy needs.
Authorities have not announced a timeline for reopening the pedestrian routes but emphasized that the measures are temporary and will be reassessed based on evolving circumstances.
