ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has intensified diplomatic and maritime efforts to secure the safe release of Pakistani crew members taken hostage after a piracy attack near Somalia involving the oil tanker “Honor 25,” according to officials.
The vessel reportedly came under attack by suspected Somali pirates in waters close to the Horn of Africa, a region historically known for piracy incidents and threats to international shipping routes. The attack created panic among crew members, with several Pakistani nationals believed to be among those held hostage onboard the tanker.
Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has formally contacted the Somali government through diplomatic channels. The federal minister wrote a letter to the Somali ambassador, requesting immediate support and intervention to ensure the safe recovery and repatriation of the Pakistani crew members.
The maritime affairs minister expressed serious concern over the safety of Pakistani seafarers and said the government is using every available diplomatic and international channel to address the crisis. He emphasized that protecting Pakistani citizens working in global maritime industries remains a top priority for Islamabad.
According to officials, Pakistan’s diplomatic mission is in constant communication with Somali authorities and international maritime agencies monitoring security conditions in the region. Authorities are also coordinating with shipping companies and naval forces operating near Somali waters.
Meanwhile, Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that it is closely monitoring the piracy incident involving the tanker “Honor 25.” Somali officials stated that all relevant information regarding the hijacked vessel and its crew has been shared with the country’s security institutions and law enforcement agencies.
Somali authorities further assured Pakistan that any major development regarding the hostage situation would be immediately communicated through official diplomatic channels. Efforts are currently focused on resolving the matter peacefully and ensuring the safe return of all crew members.
The incident has once again highlighted growing concerns over maritime security in the region, where piracy attacks continue to threaten commercial shipping and international trade routes. Security analysts say shipping companies operating near Somalia remain vulnerable despite increased international naval patrols in the area.
Pakistan continues to monitor the situation closely as families of the crew members await positive news regarding their safe release.
