The affected pilgrims reported that they had been at the airport since 4am while their flight to Islamabad departed at 9am leaving them behind in the Iraqi capital.

The stranded travellers expressed frustration, stating that their passports cannot be located and they have not been informed about when or how they will return home.

Pilgrims have appealed for assistance from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, urging the government to ensure their immediate return through special emergency flights.