On Wednesday, the National Assembly received a crucial briefing regarding the status of overseas citizens. Importantly, officials revealed that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) recently deported around 3,500 Pakistanis. These individuals violated local social media laws during the Iran-US conflict.
Strict UAE Social Media Laws Trigger Deportations
Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry addressed the assembly during Question Hour. He clarified that the UAE simply enforced its local regulations. Therefore, authorities did not specifically target Pakistani nationals. Currently, the government is extending all possible assistance to the affected individuals and their families.
Meanwhile, Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis Aoun Chaudhry provided additional context. He pointed out that this deportation figure remains relatively small. It represents only a fraction of the massive Pakistani community currently living and working in the UAE.
Crackdown on Illegal Migration & Corrupt FIA Officials
Undocumented migration continues to create severe challenges. Consequently, it has caused a tragic loss of life. This is especially true for migrants attempting to reach Europe through dangerous routes in Libya and Gulf countries.
To combat this crisis, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered strict administrative action. As a result, the government formally dismissed 100 officials from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). These officials actively facilitated illegal migration networks. Furthermore, authorities have significantly strengthened airport screening mechanisms. This move aims to curb human smuggling and protect Pakistan’s international reputation.
Updates on Overseas Prisoners & Hostages
The parliamentary session also covered the welfare of Pakistanis detained abroad. Responding to MNA Samina Khalid Ghurki, Chaudhry confirmed that zero Pakistanis sit on death row in Spain, Portugal, or the United Kingdom. These specific nations have officially abolished capital punishment.
Moreover, Pakistani diplomatic missions operate dedicated support sections in these countries. Personnel conduct regular prison visits and address inmate concerns. They also provide essential legal support to nationals who cannot afford private lawyers. Additionally, under a bilateral transfer agreement with the UK, authorities successfully repatriated nine Pakistani prisoners during 2024 and 2025.
Furthermore, the government is actively working to rescue Pakistanis stranded by Somali pirates. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is personally monitoring these sensitive efforts. National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq also directed lawmakers to give this hostage situation special attention.
Finally, Aoun Chaudhry briefed the House on a recent tragedy in Italy. A Pakistani national from Mardan was allegedly killed there. The government immediately took notice. Chaudhry personally met the victim’s family to guarantee full state support. Consequently, the government will cover the repatriation of the body and provide financial assistance. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s embassy in Italy is actively pursuing the murder case with local law enforcement.
