QUETTA: Pakistani authorities have shut all major pedestrian border crossings with Iran amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel, officials in Balochistan said.
The closures impact the Taftan crossing in Chaghi, Gabd-Rimdan in Gwadar, Chedgi and Jirrak in Panjgur, and Rideeg Mand in Kech. These routes are vital for local trade and cross-border travel.
“All pedestrian movement at Gabd-Rimdan is suspended due to the Iran-Israel conflict,” said Jawad Ahmed Zehri, assistant commissioner for Gwadar.
He added that trade would continue, and stranded Pakistani citizens could return, but new entries into Iran were blocked until further notice.
Authorities also closed the Taftan border for pedestrian movement.
“We have halted pedestrian traffic at Taftan,” said Naveed Ahmed, assistant commissioner for the area. “Trade and customs work continues as usual.”
Officials confirmed the closure of the Chedgi, Jirrak, and Mand Radig crossings as well.
The move follows Israeli airstrikes on Iranian cities that began Friday, killing dozens, including top Iranian commanders.
The shutdown is likely to hurt daily wage workers, small traders, and families who rely on frequent cross-border travel.
People commonly use these routes to trade small goods like fruits, vegetables, and household items.
Pakistan and Iran traded goods worth $2.8 billion last fiscal year. Both sides aim to raise this to $10 billion under a signed agreement.
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Iran also supplies 100 megawatts of electricity to towns along the Balochistan border.
