Islamabad Repatriates Pakistan Iran Seafarers from US Seized Vessel

PAKISTAN & IRAN – (Web Desk) – Pakistan has successfully brought back 11 Pakistani and 20 Iranian crew members who were stuck on a Pakistan Iran seafarers US seized vessel in the high seas. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar made this announcement on Friday, saying all the returned individuals were in good health and in high spirits.

The United States had seized several ships in recent weeks. This came after the US Navy set up a blockade of Iranian ports. The blockade followed failed peace talks over the growing conflict in the Strait of Hormuz.

According to DPM Dar, the crew members first traveled from Singapore to Bangkok. From there, they boarded a flight back to Islamabad, completing their long journey home. The Iranian crew members were also being helped to return to Iran shortly after.

Pakistan reached out to multiple countries to make this happen. Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan played a key role in supporting the process. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also trusted Pakistan to handle the return of Iranian nationals safely.

The US government cooperated closely throughout the entire process. Thailand helped by allowing the group to pass through Bangkok. Pakistan’s Foreign Office, Ministry of Interior, and diplomatic missions in Singapore and Thailand all worked together behind the scenes.

Alhamdolillah, I am pleased to share that we have been successful in the repatriation of 11 Pakistani nationals, alongside 20 nationals of our brotherly country Iran, through Singapore, who were aboard vessels seized in the high seas by the United States.

All individuals are in…

— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) May 15, 2026

A week before this announcement, DPM Dar had already confirmed that Pakistan was in active talks with Washington and other parties. The goal was to secure the safe return of Pakistani and Iranian seafarers from the seized vessels near Singaporean waters.

This successful operation shows Pakistan’s growing role as a trusted diplomatic partner in the region. It also reflects the government’s strong commitment to protecting Pakistani citizens who are in distress abroad.