ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced on Friday that Pakistan successfully repatriated 11 Pakistani nationals and facilitated the return of 20 Iranian citizens who were aboard vessels seized by the United States in international waters amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
According to Dar, all 31 individuals are safe, healthy, and in good spirits after being transferred from Singapore to Bangkok before boarding a flight to Islamabad. The Iranian nationals will later be assisted in returning to Iran.
The development comes during escalating regional tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes. The waterway has faced severe disruptions since military hostilities involving the United States, Israel, and Iran intensified earlier this year.
Dar said the welfare and safety of Pakistanis abroad remain the government’s highest priority, especially during emergencies involving international conflict and maritime security.
The deputy prime minister thanked several international leaders and governments for their support during the repatriation process, including Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He also appreciated the support provided by the government of Thailand for facilitating the passengers’ transit through Bangkok.
The repatriated individuals were linked to two vessels reportedly seized by US forces in recent weeks. One of the vessels, the M/V Touska container ship, was allegedly boarded by US authorities on April 19 near Iran’s Chabahar Port in the Gulf of Oman. Reports indicate the ship belonged to the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL), which is currently under US sanctions.
Following the seizure, six crew members were initially released while the remaining personnel were later evacuated to Pakistan before arrangements were made for their onward travel.
Another vessel, the M/T Majestic X oil tanker, was reportedly intercepted by US forces in the Indian Ocean on April 23 as part of heightened maritime operations linked to sanctions enforcement and regional security concerns.
The Strait of Hormuz crisis has significantly impacted international shipping and global energy markets in recent months. Several ships operating near Iranian waters have reportedly faced attacks, detentions, or military inspections amid fears of wider regional conflict.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office, Ministry of Interior, and diplomatic missions in Singapore and Thailand played a key role in coordinating the successful repatriation effort. Officials stated that close diplomatic cooperation with regional and international partners helped ensure the safe return of all affected individuals.
