More than 13,000 people crossed from Iran into Pakistan in the past six weeks, the International Organization for Migration said.
The surge, occurring as the U.S. and Israel intensify military actions against Iran, raises security and humanitarian concerns for both Pakistan and the broader region.
According to the International Organization for Migration, more than 13,000 people entered Pakistan from Iran in the past six weeks [1]. That works out to an average of 296 individuals per day [1]. The agency said the movement was driven by the war jointly launched by the U.S. and Israel against Iran, and by increased returns after a recent cease‑fire announcement.
IOM data also show that 170,153 individuals crossed from Iran into Afghanistan during the same period [1]. The disparity highlights how the conflict is reshaping migration patterns across the entire Iran‑Pakistan‑Afghanistan corridor.
Most of the Pakistan entries were recorded at the Taftan‑Mirjaveh and Gabd‑Kumb‑Rimdan crossings, the two official points along the rugged 1,600‑kilometer frontier [1]. Local authorities said border patrols are strained as they attempt to process the influx while maintaining security checks.
IOM officials said the flow could fluctuate as the regional security situation evolves. They said any escalation could prompt further displacements, putting pressure on already limited shelter and health services in border towns.
Humanitarian groups said coordinated assistance is needed, noting that many migrants lack documentation and face harsh desert conditions. Without timely aid, the risk of dehydration, disease and exploitation rises sharply.
Pakistan’s government said it has begun discussions with neighboring countries and international partners to develop a joint response, aiming to balance border control with the protection of vulnerable populations.
**What this means** The sudden rise in cross‑border movement underscores how geopolitical conflicts can quickly translate into humanitarian emergencies. Neighboring states will need to coordinate security and relief efforts to prevent a worsening crisis along the Iran‑Pakistan frontier, while international agencies must scale up support to address the basic needs of thousands of displaced people.
“Over 13,000 people have crossed into Pakistan from Iran over the past six weeks due to war jointly launched by the US and Israel against Iran.”
The surge in migration illustrates how the U.S.-Israel-led conflict with Iran is spilling over borders, creating immediate humanitarian pressures and testing the capacity of Pakistan and Afghanistan to manage large, unplanned population movements.
