IRAQ – BOL News Staging

40,000 Pakistani pilgrims missing from Iraq, Iran and Syria, reveals Minister

July 16, 2025July 16, 2025 by Abid Khan

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf has made a startling revelation, stating that the government has no record of approximately 40,000 Pakistani pilgrims who traveled to Iraq, Iran, and Syria — and have since gone missing. According to the minister, these pilgrims vanished without trace after entering the respective countries, and Pakistan … Read more

Pakistan, Iran, Iraq introduces new Pilgrimage regulations

July 15, 2025 by Sana Fatima

TEHRAN: In a major policy shift, the interior ministers of Pakistan, Iran, and Iraq have agreed to implement new regulations to streamline and secure pilgrimage travel. Under the new rules, Pakistani pilgrims must now travel to Iraq under the supervision of registered Group Organizers. Authorities will no longer allow individual travel for pilgrimage purposes. Authorities … Read more

Iranian Minister terms Naqvi’s visit positive step for Pak-Iran ties

July 14, 2025 by Abid Khan

TEHRAN: Iranian Interior Minister Abbas Araghchi has welcomed the visit of his Pakistani counterpart, Mohsin Naqvi, to Tehran, calling it a positive development for the enhancement of bilateral relations between the two neighboring countries. During a meeting held in Tehran, the two ministers discussed matters of mutual interest, including cooperation on security, border management, and … Read more

Pakistan issues travel advisory for Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, and Syria

June 20, 2025 by Abid Khan

ISLAMABAD: The Government of Pakistan has issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, and Syria due to the prevailing security situation. Pakistani nationals residing in these countries have also been advised to exercise extreme caution and refrain from unnecessary movement. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, … Read more

CJCSC, Iraqi PM agree to expand scope of military cooperation

December 4, 2024 by Abid Khan

ISLAMABAD: Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), General Sahir Shamshad Mirza called on Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammad Shia’ Al Sudani and other officials.

CJCSC General Sahir Shamshad Mirza who is on an official visit to Republic of Iraq, also met with Thabet Muhammad Saeed Al-Abbasi, Defence Minister, Abdul Amir Al Shammari, Interior Minister and General Abdul Ameer Rasheed Yar Allah, Chief of Defence Forces.

According to the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), both sides discussed key areas of interest, including security, defense cooperation and the current regional environment.

The dignitaries explored ways to expand the scope of military cooperation between the two countries and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening defence ties.

The Iraqi civil and military leadership lauded the professionalism of Pakistan Armed Forces and acknowledged their sacrifices in fight against terrorism.

Upon arrival at Iraq Armed Forces Headquarters, smartly turned out military contingent presented “Guard of Honour” to the Chairman CJCSC.

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Pakistan, Iraq agree to enhance mutually beneficial cooperation

September 27, 2024 by Abid Khan

NEW YORK: Pakistan and Iraq agreed to further deepen and broaden the scope of existing bilateral ties and exploit the potential of enhancing mutually beneficial cooperation between both countries.

The bilateral ties were discussed in a meeting between Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and his Iraqi counterpart Mohammad Shia’ Al Sudani on the sidelines of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly here.

The prime minister lauded the cordial ties between the two brotherly countries, reinforced by strong historical, cultural and religious affinities.

He also commended the excellent arrangements made by the Government of Iraq for the Pakistani pilgrims.

The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

They noted with grave concern the ongoing Israeli carnage on Gaza and the ensuing humanitarian catastrophe.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and holding Israel accountable for the Gaza genocide.

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Mohsin Naqvi meets Commander of Iraq’s Rapid Response Unit

August 3, 2024August 3, 2024 by Abid Khan

Mohsin Naqvi says new chapter in US-Pak ties to start in President Trump’s era

ISLAMABAD: Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi met with a high-level Iraqi delegation led by Commander of Iraq’s Rapid Response Unit Lieutenant General Dr. Tahmeir Ismail here on Saturday.

During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, including not taking passports from Pakistani pilgrims in Iraq and providing more facilities to them were discussed in detail.

Moreover, training of Iraqi police in Pakistan, cooperation in the Safe City project, enhancement of mutual cooperation to prevent illegal immigration and human smuggling were also discussed.

The Iraqi delegation invited Minister of Interior Mohsin Naqvi to visit Iraq.

The Interior Minister emphasized that the proposal of not taking passports from pilgrims traveling to Iraq requires immediate action added that hopefully, the Iraqi Government will soon make a final decision in this regard.

The Commander of the Iraqi Rapid Response Unit said that they will discuss the issue of not taking passports from Pakistani pilgrims with the DG Passport, and hoped that the issue will be resolved.

He added that the brothers and sisters coming from Pakistan are our respectable guests.

He highlighted that Pakistan has decided to provide visa-free facility to Iraqi citizens, which will be implemented soon.

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Sweden plans to end development phase aid to Iraq

July 18, 2024 by Sana Fatima

Sweden to phase out development aid to Iraq over the next year. The aid package currently amounts to around 190 million Swedish crowns ($18 million). The total aid will decrease to approximately 100 million crowns by June 30, reducing the aid’s effectiveness. On Wednesday, the government announced that Sweden will phase out development aid to … Read more

Sadia Imam shares her spiritual Journey Karbala, Iraq

July 18, 2024 by Sana Fatima

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar, celebrated with deep sorrow and grief. Hazrat Imam Hussain, grandson of Hazrat Muhammad, was martyred in the Battle of Karbala. Pakistani celebrities, including Sadia Imam, often share photos from Karbala, Iraq. The month of Muharram holds special religious significance due to the sorrowful martyrdom of Hazrat … Read more

UK explored Rwanda-Style asylum agreement with Iraq

May 6, 2024 by Sana Fatima

UK government advises against travel to Iraq due to its dangerous nature. Whitehall officials proposed a similar plan to Rwanda’s scheme for processing migrants in a third country. Documents suggest a returns agreement with Baghdad for Iraqi citizens. New documents have revealed that the UK considered sending asylum-seekers to Iraq for processing. The UK government … Read more

Iraq strongly denounces US air strikes on Iran-backed groups as ‘Irresponsible’

January 24, 2024 by Sana Fatima

Iraq’s national security adviser Qassem al-Aaraji criticized the US action. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq claimed responsibility for the attack. The US is prepared to take further measures to protect its people. On Wednesday, the Iraqi government strongly condemned US strikes that targeted sites used by Iranian-backed groups. A spokesperson for Prime Minister Mohammed Shia … Read more

US personnel sustain injuries on a missile strike on Al Asad Airbase in Iraq

January 21, 2024January 21, 2024 by Sana Fatima

Iran-backed militias launched missiles and rockets at Al Asad airbase in western Iraq. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq claims the attack. Iran has conducted multiple missile strikes against targets in Syria, Iraq, and Pakistan. In a targeted assault on the Al Asad airbase in western Iraq, Iran-backed militias launched ballistic missiles and rockets on Saturday … Read more

Missing Kuwaiti, Saudi citizens found dead in Iraq

December 27, 2023 by Muzzammil Mehboob

Kwaiti and Saudi citizens were found dead in Iraq. The Saudi Embassy in Baghdad acknowledged the deaths. The FMs of both countries conveyed their deep sorrow. According to Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Salem Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, two recently reported missing nationals—one from Kuwait and the other from Saudi Arabia—have been found dead in Iraq. “Two … Read more

US launches strikes on Iran-backed militias in Iraq after drone attack

December 26, 2023 by Sana Fatima

US military carried out strikes against Iranian-backed militant groups in Iraq. Iraq condemned the US strikes, labeling them a “clear hostile act.” The US has consistently targeted sites associated with militant groups in Iraq. The US military carried out strikes against Iranian-backed militant groups in Iraq shortly after a drone strike targeted a US airbase, … Read more

Five Iraqi militants killed in US airstrike near Kirkuk

December 4, 2023 by Muzzammil Mehboob

Five Iraqi militants were killed by a US airstrike near Kirkuk. The US military said the airstrike was a “self-defense strike on an imminent threat.” ISIS claimed multiple attacks against US forces on Sunday. Five Iraqi terrorists, identified as members of an Iran-backed militia, were killed by a US airstrike near the northern city of … Read more

Anoushey Ashraf Shares Moments From Her Visit To Karbala

October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by Areej Afzal

Anoushey Ashraf is a talent powerhouse.
People adore her hosting approach.
She is currently on a spiritual pilgrimage in Iraq.

Anoushey Ashraf is a talent powerhouse. People adore her hosting approach, and we’ve seen her emcee a variety of shows spanning from radio to television, as well as several live events and award presentations. Anoushey is one of the few hosts who know how to keep the audience engaged while they are on stage. She is also quite opinionated and will never hesitate to declare what she believes to be correct.

Anoushey is also a travel fanatic who frequently shares her adventures with the rest of the world. She is now on a spiritual pilgrimage in Iraq, where she visited Imam e Hussain RA’s shrine at Karbala. She also shared some stunning images from her visits to Holy sites. Anoushey’s precious moments from Karbala can be witnessed below:

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Pakistan extends greetings on Iraq National Day, Korea Foundation Day

October 3, 2023 by Abid Khan

Independence Day of Iraq is annually celebrated on Oct 3.
Korea Foundation Day is also celebrated on October 03.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan extended greetings to the people and governments of Iraq and Korea as the two countries celebrated their National Day and Foundation Day respectively.

“On the occasion of National Day of the Republic of Iraq, we extend our heartiest felicitations to its people and Government,” the Foreign Office spokesperson said in a statement. Also known as Iraq Independence Day, the Day is annually celebrated on October 3 to mark the country’s independence from Britain in 1932.

“On the occasion of National Foundation Day of the Republic of Korea, we extend our heartiest felicitations to its people and Government,” the Foreign Office spokesperson said in a statement.

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Bomb blast outside Turkish interior ministry injures 2 officers

October 1, 2023 by Muzzammil Mehboob

Terrorist attack outside Turkish interior ministry injures 2 police officers. The attacker “neutralized” himself, and no group has claimed responsibility. Authorities are carrying out controlled explosions to prevent other explosions. The interior minister of Turkey has described the explosion outside the interior ministry as a “terrorist attack.” Around 09:30 (06:30 GMT), two assailants entered a … Read more

Tragic Iraq Wedding Fire Claims More Lives

October 1, 2023 by Aimen Siddiqui

The wedding venue in Qaraqosh lacked safety features like emergency exits and a sprinkler system. Building materials similar to Grenfell Tower where a 2017 fire killed 79. A tragic fire during a wedding reception left at least 119 dead and many missing. The wedding venue in Qaraqosh, a small Christian town in northern Iraq, tragically … Read more

Pakistani pilgrims lost their passports in Iraq; urge authorities to help

September 17, 2023 by Muhammad Sher

Pilgrims went for the Arbaeen walk. So far, four thousand Pakistanis have lost their passports as a result of it. The passport was lost at the Chazaba border. Passports of thousands of Pakistani pilgrims missing in Iraq. Remember, these pilgrims went for the Arbaeen procession this month. According to sources, by road, Pakistani pilgrims heading … Read more

Iraq Ends Telegram App Suspension Over Security Concerns

August 13, 2023 by Muhammad Sher

Suspension drew criticism, raised freedom of speech debates. Telegram popular in Iraq, used for propaganda. Iranian-linked parties dominate parliament, support PM. The Iraqi government has lifted its week-long suspension of the Telegram messaging app, citing “national security” concerns. The decision was made after facing criticism from pro-Iran factions. As of Sunday, the app became accessible … Read more

Yumna Zaidi Explores Spirituality in Najaf, Iraq

July 29, 2023 by Nida Sumair

Yumna Zaidi, the reigning queen of the Pakistani drama industry.
She continues to soar to new heights with back-to-back hit dramas.
With a flourishing career, Yumna Zaidi proves that she is a force to be reckoned with.

Yumna Zaidi, the reigning queen of the Pakistani drama industry, continues to soar to new heights with back-to-back hit dramas. As she gears up for her film debut in “Nayab,” where she portrays a talented cricketer, the talented actress has also been announced as the lead star in the highly anticipated drama “Gentleman” alongside the renowned actor Humayun Saeed. With a flourishing career, Yumna Zaidi proves that she is a force to be reckoned with.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of her successful career, Yumna Zaidi recently took a well-deserved break to embark on a profound spiritual journey to Najaf, Iraq, for Ziarat, accompanied by her mother. During her time there, she had the opportunity to visit the Holy places, draped in a traditional chaddar and hijab, and documented her experiences as well as those of fellow pilgrims.

In what she fondly terms “Safar e Ishq” or the journey of love, Yumna Zaidi shared heartwarming moments that touched the souls of her followers. Through captivating images and stories, she offered a glimpse into the transformative power of faith and devotion.

The talented actress believes in finding a harmonious balance between her flourishing career and her spiritual beliefs. Her decision to take time off to nurture her soul reflects the depth and authenticity of her character, inspiring many to prioritize self-care and inner growth.

As her fans eagerly await her upcoming projects in the world of drama and cinema, Yumna Zaidi’s journey to Najaf serves as a poignant reminder that success and fame are not solely measured by professional accomplishments. True fulfillment lies in connecting with one’s roots and seeking solace in the divine.

Yumna Zaidi’s spiritual journey to Najaf, Iraq, reminds us of the importance of finding our own moments of serenity amidst life’s fast-paced demands. Her experiences serve as a source of inspiration for others to explore their own paths of self-discovery and inner peace.

In a world where the spotlight often shines solely on fame and success, Yumna Zaidi’s heartfelt journey offers a refreshing perspective on the importance of staying grounded, humble, and connected to one’s faith. Her dedication to both her craft and her spiritual beliefs makes her a true role model for aspiring actors and individuals alike.

With every step she takes, Yumna Zaidi continues to inspire and captivate the hearts of millions, leaving an indelible mark on the Pakistani entertainment industry and beyond. As she returns from her spiritual sojourn, her fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in her career and life journey, knowing that she will undoubtedly shine bright both on and off the screen.

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A post shared by Yumna Zaidi (@yumnazaidiofficial)

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Italy: migrant smugglers to face more than 30 years in jail

March 10, 2023 by Qurat ul Ain Khan Qurat ul Ain

Italy’s prime minister has outlined plans for people smugglers.
Giorgia Meloni unveiled the proposals serving up to 30 years in prison.
The proposals were made during a cabinet meeting near the site of a shipwreck.

Italy’s prime minister has outlined plans that could result in extended prison sentences for people smugglers responsible for deaths and serious injuries.

Giorgia Meloni unveiled the proposals, which could result in smugglers serving up to 30 years in prison.

Ministers also agreed on measures to improve legal pathways for foreign workers entering Italy.

The proposals were made during a cabinet meeting near the site of a shipwreck that killed 72 migrants last month.

Ms Meloni insisted at the meeting in the Calabrian town of Cutro that she was determined to defeat people smuggling.

“Our response to what happened is a policy of greater firmness on the ground,” she said, adding that Italy would take action against smugglers on the boats as well as those in third countries who organized the trips.

The government has denied responsibility for the disaster, but Ms Meloni has stated that more improved and legal routes must be established to allow migrants to safely enter the country.

“I believe that another way to fight people smugglers is to send out the message that it does not pay to enter Italy illegally,” she said.

Separately, she stated that countries that assist in educating their citizens about the dangers of travelling to Italy through criminal networks would be given preferential quotas for legal migrant workers.

Protesters threw stuffed animals at passing cars as ministers were driven to a cabinet meeting in Cutro on Thursday. Some held up signs reading “They could have been saved”.

Ms Meloni’s right-wing government has come under fire for the February disaster, with questions raised about whether more could have been done to prevent it.

The majority of those aboard the 200-person wooden vessel were said to be from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Somalia, Syria, Iraq, and Iran.

The ship is believed to have sunk after colliding with rocks in rough weather while attempting to land near Crotone.

According to officials, 72 bodies have been recovered and 79 people have survived, but approximately 30 people are still missing.

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Italy migrant boat shipwreck: Police detained three for alleged smuggling

March 1, 2023 by Qurat ul Ain Khan Qurat ul Ain

At least 64 migrants died in a shipwreck off Italy’s southern coast.
Authorities have cautioned that the final death toll might exceed 100.
A Turkish male and two Pakistani nationals were apprehended.

Following the deaths of at least 64 migrants in a shipwreck off Italy‘s southern coast on Sunday, police arrested three persons on suspicion of people smuggling.

A Turkish male and two Pakistani nationals were apprehended.

The majority of persons aboard the 200-person wooden boats were claimed to be from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Somalia, Syria, Iraq, and Iran.

Authorities have cautioned that the final death toll might exceed 100.

On Tuesday morning, rescuers recovered another body from the sea: that of a guy.

Despite terrible weather, the three men apprehended are reported to have sailed the boat from Izmir, Turkey, to Calabria, Italy.

Authorities claim they reportedly requested the migrants for roughly €8,000 (£7,000; $8,500) each to make the arduous journey.

The ship is said to have sunk after colliding with rocks in heavy weather while attempting to land in Crotone.

The coastguard said that 80 passengers were found alive, “including some who managed to reach the land after the sinking,” implying that many more were still missing.

The coffins of the victims found so far have been put out in a sports hall in Crotone – little white caskets for the younger victims and brown ones for the elderly – to allow people to pay their condolences. At least 12 children, including an infant, have been killed.

Families of the victims from Northern Europe have gathered to try to find out what happened to their loved ones and identify bodies where needed.

Several of the migrants on board had come from Afghanistan, according to rescuers, and Pakistan has confirmed that 16 of its residents survived the accident, with four still missing.

Since 2014, more than 20,000 people have died or gone missing at sea in the central Mediterranean, according to monitoring organizations.

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Emirates flight to Brussels diverted to Iraq due to medical emergency

February 8, 2023 by Qurat ul Ain Khan Qurat ul Ain

Emirates flight was diverted to Erbil in Iraq.
A passenger suffered a medical emergency.
The passenger was met by local medical staff upon arrival.

Dubai: An Emirates flight bound for Brussels, Belgium, was diverted to Erbil in Iraq after a passenger on board suffered a medical emergency. An Emirates spokesperson said, “Emirates flight EK181 was diverted to Erbil (and) the passenger was met by local medical staff upon arrival.”

After less than two hours on the ground, the aircraft refueled and continued its journey to Brussels. Emirates apologized for the inconvenience caused. “The safety of our crew and passengers is of the utmost importance,” said the airline.

Emirates presently serves Brussels using Boeing 777-300ER aircraft outfitted with its ‘Game Changer’ fully enclosed First Class cabins. Since January 2023, the airline has expanded its footprint in the Asian, Australian, and European markets with service additions to Brisbane, Bangkok, Taiwan, Tokyo-Haneda, Glasgow, and Birmingham. Furthermore, Emirates has codeshare agreements with 26 airlines, allowing it to serve over 5,000 cities worldwide.

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Earthquake in Turkey & Syria: Emergency supplies from Iran and Iraq arrive in Syria

February 7, 2023February 7, 2023 by Qurat ul Ain Khan Qurat ul Ain

70 tons of food, medical supplies, and blankets are sent.
Iranian aid arrived earlier on Monday.
Over 4300 casualties have been reported.

Aid planes from Iran and Iraq have arrived at Damascus International Airport.

The Iraqi planes carried about 70 tons of food, medical supplies, and blankets, among other emergency supplies, Syrian state media reported. These were delivered early Tuesday morning.

Iraqi’s Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani said on Monday they would send an aid shipment supplying first aid, shelter supplies, medicine, and fuel.

Iranian aid arrived earlier on Monday. Iran’s Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said on Monday that his country is ready to dispatch humanitarian aid to quake-hit areas in Syria.

A 7.8 magnitude earthquake on early Monday jolted southern Turkiye and northwest Syria, killing over 4300 people in their sleep, leveling buildings, and causing tremors felt as far away as Greenland.

At least 1,451 were killed in rebel and government-controlled parts of Syria, state media and medical sources said whereas 2,921 people died in Turkey.

Rescue workers and residents frantically searched for survivors under the rubble of buildings in multiple cities on both sides of the border.

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Iraqis protest after father murders YouTuber daughter

February 6, 2023 by Qurat ul Ain Khan Qurat ul Ain

Tiba al-Ali, 22, was killed by her father.
She had amassed a YouTube following by streaming videos of her daily life.
She also accuses her brother of sexual assault in the recordings.

Iraqi activists demonstrated on Sunday to demand a domestic violence law, just days after a YouTuber was strangled by her father in a killing that outraged the conservative country.

Tiba al-Ali, 22, was killed by her father on January 31 in Diwaniyah, the interior ministry’s spokesman Saad Maan announced on Twitter on Friday.

Maan stated that an attempt had been made to settle a “family dispute” between the young woman and her relatives. Later, the father surrendered to authorities and admitted to murdering his daughter.

According to accounts, security authorities blocked some 20 activists from demonstrating outside the country’s Supreme Judicial Council on Sunday, and they instead congregated at a road leading to the institution.

Some held placards saying “Stop killing women” and “Tiba’s killer must be held to account”.

“We demand laws to protect women, especially laws against domestic violence,” 22-year-old protester Rose Hamid told sources.

“We came here to protest against Tiba’s murder and against all others. Who will be the next victim?”

UN mission in Iraq

Another demonstrator, Lina Ali, said: “We will keep mobilizing because of rising domestic violence and killings of women.”

The UN mission in Iraq condemned Ali’s “abhorrent killing” and urged the Baghdad government to pass “a law that specifically criminalizes gender-based violence” on Sunday.

In Turkey, she had amassed a YouTube following by streaming videos of her daily life, in which her fiance frequently appeared.

Recordings allegedly of discussions with Ali’s father, who was unhappy because his daughter was living in Turkey, were published on social media by a friend of Ali and picked up by activists.

She also accuses her brother of sexual assault in the recordings.

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UN mission in Iraq

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