Pakistan-Iran Border Closure Aims to Address Security and Smuggling Concerns, Says Official

PothikTV News Desk: 18 October 2026, 9:35 am

The Balochistan government has refuted social media rumors regarding the temporary closure of the Pakistan-Iran border, clarifying that the measure is aimed at addressing security concerns, preventing smuggling, and improving overall border management.

According to Shahid Rind, Adviser to the Balochistan Chief Minister, the temporary shutdown was necessary to resolve pressing security issues, curb illegal smuggling, and establish a more effective border management system.

Rind stated that positive progress is currently being made through discussions between senior Pakistani and Iranian officials to address administrative issues related to the border.

He expressed optimism that the border is likely to reopen soon, noting that a coordinated system is being developed to improve border affairs, maintain law and order, and prevent illegal trade activity.

The adviser emphasized that effective border management would help control unrest in border regions while creating opportunities to provide improved facilities for legitimate traders.

He also urged the public to disregard unverified information and rumors circulating across social media platforms regarding the border situation.

The clarification follows concerns raised by the Quetta Chamber of Commerce, which reported that the border closure had severely disrupted bilateral trade and left freight trucks stranded on both sides.

The chamber warned that the federal government’s sudden decision would lead to substantial financial losses, estimating that approximately 2,000 trucks traveling between Pakistan and Iran were stuck.

Chamber officials advised local merchants engaged in trade with Iran to suspend new purchases due to ongoing uncertainty surrounding the border operational status.

Additionally, the Commerce Ministry has directed traders to temporarily refrain from placing new bookings for goods imported from Iran until the situation is fully resolved.