Nearly 50,000 Pakistani pilgrims are reported missing in Iraq, according to Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Pakistan's Minister for Religious Affairs.

While the exact timeframe of these disappearances remains unclear, the alarming figure has sparked widespread concern.  

Millions of pilgrims, predominantly Shia Muslims, travel to Iraq annually to participate in religious festivals such as Arbaeen and Ashura. Pakistan's Shia minority is a significant contingent among these pilgrims.  

In response to the reports, Iraq’s labor and social affairs minister, Ahmed al-Asadi, has announced an investigation. He suggested that many of the missing pilgrims might be working illegally in the country, despite Iraq welcoming tourists.  

The Pakistani government has acknowledged challenges faced by pilgrims, including lengthy wait times, inadequate facilities, and exorbitant costs. To address these issues, a dedicated directorate for pilgrims to Iraq and Iran is being established.  

Recently, Pakistan and Iraq signed an agreement to facilitate work visas for Pakistanis, aiming to reduce illegal immigration. However, the new data on missing pilgrims raises questions about the effectiveness of these measures. (ILKHA)