Vessels seized by US in int’l waters: Dar declares repatriation of 11 citizens, 20 Iranian nationals

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister (DPM/FM) Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Friday announced the successful repatriation of 11 Pakistani citizens along with 20 Iranian nationals, who were on board vessels seized by the US in international waters.

The group was brought back via Singapore after being held aboard vessels.

In a post on X, Dar expressed satisfaction over the outcome, noting that the coordinated diplomatic efforts ensured the safe return of both Pakistani and Iranian nationals.

“All individuals are in good health and high spirits. The welfare and well-being of Pakistanis abroad, particularly those in distress, remains our government’s highest priority,” DPM Dar added. All individuals have reached Bangkok from Singapore and already boarded the flight scheduled to reach Islamabad later tonight. Our Irani brothers will then be facilitated to return to their homeland.

Dar highlighted, “My sincere appreciation to the Foreign Minister Vivian Bala and the Prime Minister and the Government of Singapore for their continued support and engagement throughout this process, extended at my request. I also thank Foreign Minister of Iran, brother Abbas Araghchi, for reposing trust in Pakistan for the repatriation of our Iranian brethren.”

He extended gratitude to Government of the United States Secretary Rubio for close coordination in facilitating the smooth return of 31 Pakistani and Irani nationals, and to the Government of Thailand @SihasakPh for facilitating, at our request, the transit of these individuals through Bangkok.

DPM Dar thanked colleagues at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior, and Pakistan’s Missions in Singapore and Thailand for their timely coordination and dedicated efforts, ensuring the smooth, safe, and successful completion of the repatriation process.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026