WANA (May 08) – Pakistan’s Foreign Minister has announced that Islamabad stands ready to facilitate the safe return of 20 Iranian seafarers currently aboard vessels seized by U.S. authorities near Singaporean waters, offering passage through Pakistani territory.

 

In a social media post on X (formerly Twitter) early Friday morning, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar detailed his high-level diplomatic efforts to resolve the situation involving both Iranian and Pakistani nationals.

 

Coordination with Singapore and Iran

Minister Dar stated that he held discussions with Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan to request Singapore’s assistance in ensuring the welfare and repatriation of the sailors. According to the post, the group includes 11 Pakistani and 20 Iranian seafarers aboard vessels seized by the U.S. and currently stationed near Singapore.

 

“Pakistan also stands ready to facilitate the safe repatriation of Iranian nationals to Iran via Pakistan,” Dar noted, highlighting the humanitarian cooperation between the two neighbors.

 

The Foreign Minister also confirmed that he remains in “close coordination” with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, regarding the matter.

 

Diplomatic Efforts for Early Return

Ishaq Dar expressed appreciation for the support provided by Singaporean authorities. He emphasized that Pakistan’s Foreign Office is working directly with U.S. officials and other relevant parties to ensure the safety, welfare, and the “earliest possible return” of the nationals to their respective homes.