Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has announced that Pakistan has successfully repatriated 11 Pakistani nationals along with 20 Iranian nationals who were earlier aboard vessels seized by United States authorities.
According to his statement, the operation was completed through coordinated diplomatic efforts involving multiple countries, ensuring the safe return of all individuals involved.
Background of the maritime incident
The individuals were reportedly aboard commercial vessels operating in international waters near the Strait of Hormuz region when they were detained following enforcement actions by US naval forces.
The seizures came amid heightened tensions in the region, where maritime security has been affected by broader geopolitical disputes and naval activity involving multiple countries.
Multi-country coordination for repatriation
Dar stated that the repatriation process involved close cooperation between Pakistan, the United States, Singapore, and Thailand.
He expressed appreciation for the support provided by Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and the Singaporean government, as well as assistance from Thai authorities in facilitating transit arrangements.
He also acknowledged coordination efforts with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, which helped ensure smooth handling of Iranian nationals involved in the case.
Alhamdolillah, I am pleased to share that we have been successful in the repatriation of 11 Pakistani nationals, alongside 20 nationals of our brotherly country Iran, through Singapore, who were aboard vessels seized in the high seas by the United States.
All individuals are in…
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) May 15, 2026
Travel route and return arrangements
According to the Foreign Office, the repatriated individuals travelled from Singapore to Bangkok as part of the arranged transit process. From there, they boarded a flight to Islamabad, completing the final stage of their return journey.
Authorities confirmed that all individuals are in good health and have been safely received.
Diplomatic engagement and humanitarian focus
The deputy prime minister highlighted that the welfare of Pakistani citizens abroad remains a top priority for the government, particularly in situations involving distress or legal complications overseas.
He also thanked relevant departments, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior, and Pakistan’s diplomatic missions in Singapore and Thailand for their coordinated efforts.
Continued regional maritime tensions
The incident comes amid ongoing tensions in key global shipping routes, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, which remains a critical chokepoint for global energy transport.
Recent geopolitical developments in the region have increased security concerns for commercial shipping, prompting stronger monitoring and occasional enforcement actions by various naval forces.
Ongoing diplomatic efforts
Officials say Pakistan continues to engage with international partners to ensure the safety of its nationals abroad and to resolve similar cases through diplomatic channels.
The successful repatriation is being seen as part of broader efforts to maintain communication between involved states despite ongoing regional tensions.
