At least 28 Pakistani pilgrims died and 23 others were injured in a bus accident in  Iran’s Yazd city on Tuesday.

According to reports, they were travelling to Iraq for a Shiite Muslim ritual.

Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran Mudassir Tipu confirmed the incident and posted on X: " In pursuit of their religious journey,28 Pakistani Zaireen laid down their lives last night in Yazd city in bus accident.Another 23 are injured.I have no words to express grief but I can assure that I will do my very best for repatriation of those who passed away."

"And look after the injured ones.Embassy officials have already left for Yazd, almost 700 km away from embassy,this morning. An officer in Zahedan is overseeing emergency arrangements.I'm in touch with Iran government and office of Mayor of Yazd for crucial arrangements," the envoy said.

PM Shehzad Sharif expressed sadness

Pakistan PM Shehzad Sharif has expressed sadness over the loss of lives in the tragedy.

"Deeply saddened by the loss of lives at a bus accident of Pakistani Zaireen near Yazd in Iran. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover at the earliest. I have directed our Mission in Tehran to extend all possible assistance to the affected families," he posted n X.

According to media reports, the bus overturned and caught fire close to the  Taftan-Dehshir check point.

As many as 53 passengers were present on the bus at the time of the accident.

The pilgrims were on their way to join the Arbaeen pilgrimage in Iraq’s Karbala Governorate.