Islamabad, July 1, 2025: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has extended heartfelt support to Turkey as devastating wildfires continue to rage across Izmir province, forcing the evacuation of over 50,000 people.
More than 41 settlements in western Turkey have been evacuated since the fires erupted on Sunday due to extreme heat and high winds, according to local authorities.
Taking to platform X, PM Shehbaz expressed deep sorrow, saying:
“Pakistan stands in full solidarity with our Turkish brothers and sisters. We are ready to offer all possible assistance in this difficult hour.”
He added that Pakistan hopes the wildfires are brought under control swiftly to minimize loss of life and property.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar also voiced concern, calling the situation in Izmir “disturbing.” He stressed Pakistan’s readiness to assist, noting that the fires have disrupted flight operations and impacted thousands.
According to Turkey’s Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli, strong winds reaching up to 50 km/h intensified the fires overnight in Kuyucak and Doganbey.
Although Izmir Airport had to temporarily suspend operations, flights have now resumed, Turkish media confirmed.
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Data from the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS) shows that wildfires have already burned nearly 19,000 hectares of land across Turkey in 2025 alone.
Environmental experts blame human-driven climate change for the increasing frequency and intensity of such disasters, urging Turkey to adopt long-term preventive strategies.
