Tragedy Strikes as Bus Carrying Pakistani Pilgrims to Iraq Overturns in Iran

At least 28 people have lost their lives and 23 others injured in a devastating bus accident in the central Iranian province of Yazd. The tragedy occurred on Tuesday night when a bus conveying Pakistani pilgrims to Iraq overturned in Dehshir village, Taft County.

According to local media reports, the incident took place at around 9:50 p.m. local time (18:20 GMT) Tuesday night. The bus was en-route to the Iran-Iraq border, carrying Pakistani passengers who were seeking to attend the Arbaeen ceremonies.

Director-General of the provincial crisis management department, Mohammad-Ali Malekzadeh, confirmed the incident on Wednesday, stating that the bus was carrying Pakistani passengers who were on their way to Iraq. He added that 14 of the injured are in critical condition and receiving treatment in the province’s medical centers.

Malekzadeh also assured that the provincial authorities are coordinating with the Iranian Foreign Ministry to transfer the killed and wounded to Pakistan on board a plane.

Iran’s Traffic Police Chief, Seyyed Teymour Hosseini, revealed that initial investigations have found a technical defect in the bus’ braking system to be the cause of the accident. He stated that experts are on the scene conducting further investigations.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman, Nasser Kanaani, has expressed condolences over the deaths of Pakistani pilgrims, saying the incident “caused us deep sadness.” He also assured that Iran’s relevant organizations and authorities are seriously continuing rescue, service, and treatment operations.

The tragic incident has sent shockwaves across the region, with many expressing sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims.