Pakistan has prepared an emergency plan to ensure the safe return of its Hajj pilgrims if fighting between Iran and the United States resumes and disrupts regional air travel. Religious Affairs Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousaf said the contingency arrangements were developed in coordination with Saudi authorities and would be implemented if the security situation deteriorates.

The recent conflict, which began on Feb. 28 and has been paused under a ceasefire since April 8, disrupted flights across parts of the Middle East and raised concerns about regional stability. More than 179,000 Pakistanis are expected to perform Hajj this year, with over 60,000 already in Saudi Arabia.

Pakistan has also expanded participation in Saudi Arabia’s Route to Makkah initiative, which allows pilgrims to complete immigration procedures before departure. The program now operates in Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore, and discussions are underway to extend it to Peshawar and Quetta.

In addition, Islamabad is seeking an increase in its Hajj quota to 230,000 pilgrims, citing the country’s large Muslim population. Officials say Saudi authorities are considering the request as part of any future global quota adjustments.