Pakistani Embassy Staff Return Home Amid Rising Tensions with India

Islamabad — Amid escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, 34 individuals affiliated with the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi have returned home. The repatriated group includes one diplomat, seven staff members, and 26 family members.

The repatriation process began last evening, with Ambassador Sohail Qamar and four other staff members crossing into Pakistan via the Wagah border. Earlier that day, three additional embassy personnel and their families also returned.

This development follows the deadly Pahalgam attack that claimed the lives of 26 individuals, most of them tourists. The incident has been labeled one of the most severe attacks in the Himalayan region since 2000. While the Resistance Front initially claimed responsibility, it later denied any involvement.

India accused Pakistan of cross-border terrorism, which Pakistan vehemently denied, labeling the claims as baseless. In response to India’s aggressive measures—including suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, airspace closures, trade bans, and visa restrictions—Pakistan announced reciprocal actions.

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The Pakistani government has given Indian nationals and diplomatic staff until April 30 to leave the country. More Pakistani personnel are expected to return by that date.