US-seized vessels: Dar seeks Singapore’s help for return of nationals, Iranians
ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said on Friday that he has spoken with Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and requested Singapore’s support in facilitating the welfare and repatriation of 11 Pakistani and 20 Iranian seafarers, aboard vessels seized by US authorities and currently near Singaporean waters.
He further stated, “We appreciate the cooperation and support being extended by Singapore. Pakistan, through its Foreign Office and relevant authorities, is closely coordinating with U.S. authorities and others to ensure the safety, welfare, and earliest possible return of our nationals.”
The development comes days after Pakistan facilitated the return of crew members from a US-seized Iranian vessel, with at least 15 sailors having reached the neighbouring country on Monday.
According to the FO, the transfer of crew members was part of “confidence-building measures”.
The ship in question was boarded and seized by US forces on April 19.
The small container ship, which was part of the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) group that has been hit with US sanctions, was boarded off the coast of Iran’s Chabahar port in the Gulf of Oman.
DPM said he also spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, as Pakistan remain in close coordination on the matter.
Pakistan also stands ready to facilitate the safe repatriation of Iranian nationals to Iran via Pakistan.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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