Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced that 11 Pakistani and 20 Iranian nationals have been successfully repatriated after being stranded aboard vessels seized by the United States in international waters near Singapore. The operation was carried out through close diplomatic coordination involving Pakistan, Iran, Singapore, Thailand, and the US authorities.
According to Dar, all the rescued individuals were found to be in good health and high spirits. He stressed that the safety and welfare of Pakistanis abroad, especially those facing difficult situations, remains the government’s top priority.
The repatriated individuals first travelled from Singapore to Bangkok, where they boarded a flight scheduled to arrive in Islamabad later that night. Dar added that the Iranian nationals would also be assisted in returning safely to Iran after completing transit formalities.
The deputy prime minister appreciated the support extended by Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and his government for helping facilitate the process at Pakistan’s request. He also thanked Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for trusting Pakistan with the coordination of Iranian citizens involved in the operation.
Dar further acknowledged the role played by the United States government for maintaining close coordination that made the repatriation process smooth and timely. He also expressed gratitude to the Thai government for allowing transit arrangements through Bangkok.
Officials from Pakistan’s Foreign Office, Ministry of Interior, and diplomatic missions in Singapore and Thailand were also praised for ensuring effective communication and completing the operation successfully.
Earlier this month, Dar had confirmed that Islamabad was in continuous contact with Washington and other international stakeholders to secure the release and safe return of Pakistani seafarers aboard vessels detained by US authorities. The vessels reportedly included several Iranian crew members as well, prompting diplomatic engagement between multiple countries.
