Fact Check: "Pakistan closed its air and land routes with Iran on June 15, 2023, amid escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, leaving hundreds stranded on both sides of the border."
What We Know
On June 15, 2023, Pakistan officially closed its air and land routes with Iran due to escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. This closure was confirmed by officials who stated that it rendered hundreds of people stranded on both sides of the border (TRT Global, Pakistan closes air, land routes with Iran amid escalating ...). The closure affected several critical border crossings, including the prominent Taftan border crossing in Chaghi district and the Gabd-Rimdan border in Gwadar district, which are vital for trade and pedestrian movement (TRT Global, Pakistan closes air, land routes with Iran amid escalating ...).
The Balochistan provincial government spokesperson, Shahid Rind, noted that the closure followed a similar action taken by Iran and that while trade and pedestrian movement were halted, Pakistani citizens stranded in Iran would be allowed to return (TRT Global, Pakistan closes air, land routes with Iran amid escalating ...). The closure was anticipated to lead to food and oil shortages in Balochistan, which heavily relies on supplies from Iran (TRT Global, Pakistan closes air, land routes with Iran amid escalating ...).
Analysis
The claim that Pakistan closed its air and land routes with Iran on June 15, 2023, is substantiated by multiple credible sources. Reports from TRT Global, Anadolu Agency, and Al Jazeera consistently confirm the closure and its implications for those stranded on both sides of the border. The sources provide detailed accounts of the situation, including the specific border crossings affected and the immediate consequences for local residents and travelers.
The reliability of these sources is high, as they are established news organizations known for their journalistic standards. They provide direct quotes from officials and include specific details about the closure's impact, such as the potential for food and oil shortages in Balochistan (TRT Global, Pakistan closes air, land routes with Iran amid escalating ...). Additionally, the information aligns with the broader context of regional tensions, which adds credibility to the reports.
However, it is essential to note that while the closure was officially announced, there were indications from local officials that limited trade activity might still be occurring at some crossings, suggesting a nuanced situation (TRT Global, Pakistan closes air, land routes with Iran amid escalating ...). This complexity does not negate the fact that the main routes were closed, but it highlights the ongoing challenges faced by residents and travelers.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that Pakistan closed its air and land routes with Iran on June 15, 2023, amid escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, leaving hundreds stranded on both sides of the border, is accurate. The closure was officially confirmed by multiple reliable sources, and the implications for those affected have been documented, including potential shortages of essential supplies in the region.
Sources
- TRT Global - Pakistan shuts off air, land routes with Iran amid ...
- Pakistan closes air, land routes with Iran amid escalating ...
- Borders closing and airspaces shut as Israel-Iran conflict rages
- Pakistan shut borders with Iran amid rising Iran-Israel ...
- Borders closing and airspaces shut as Israel-Iran conflict ...
