Pakistan seeks repatriation of nationals after US-seized vessels incident

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said on Friday that Pakistan is working with Singapore, Iran, and the United States to secure the welfare and repatriation of 11 Pakistanis and 20 Iranians aboard vessels recently seized by US authorities.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, Ishaq Dar said he had spoken with Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and requested Singapore’s assistance in facilitating the safe return of the affected nationals, noting that the vessels are currently located near Singaporean waters.

He also confirmed that he held discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, adding that Islamabad remains in close coordination with Tehran on the matter. Dar said Pakistan is prepared to facilitate the safe return of Iranian nationals to Iran through its territory if required.

He emphasized that Pakistan, through its Foreign Office and relevant agencies, is actively engaging with US authorities and other stakeholders to ensure the safety, welfare, and earliest possible repatriation of its citizens.

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The Foreign Office said that Singapore appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and its role in promoting regional peace and stability, particularly in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran. It added that both sides discussed maritime affairs and recent incidents in international waters and agreed to enhance coordination between relevant authorities.

The FO further stated that both countries underscored the importance of strengthening bilateral relations and maintaining high-level contacts.

The development comes after Pakistan recently facilitated the return of crew members from another US-seized Iranian vessel, as part of ongoing confidence-building measures between regional and international stakeholders.

The vessel in question was seized by US forces on April 19 off the coast of Iran’s Chabahar port, amid heightened tensions in the Gulf region and increased naval activity in key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.

Authorities say diplomatic engagement is ongoing to resolve the situation peacefully and ensure the safe return of all affected crew members.