11 Pakistanis, 20 Iranians aboard US-seized vessels repatriated, confirm DPM Dar

Islamabad (Web Desk): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has announced that Pakistan has successfully repatriated 11 Pakistanis and 20 Iranians who were previously abroad vessels seized in the high seas by the United States.

In a post on social media platform X, he said all individuals are in good health and high spirits, adding that the government places top priority on the welfare and safety of Pakistanis abroad, especially those in distress.

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

He stated that the group travelled from Singapore to Bangkok, from where they boarded a connecting flight to Islamabad to complete the next leg of their return journey.

According to him, the Iranian nationals will later be facilitated for their return to Iran.

The deputy prime minister expressed gratitude to Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and the Singaporean government for their cooperation in the repatriation process, which was carried out at Pakistan’s request.

He also thanked Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for trusting Pakistan in facilitating the return of Iranian citizens.

Dar acknowledged the role of the United States in ensuring coordination that helped smooth the return process of the detained nationals.

He further appreciated the government of Thailand for providing transit facilities in Bangkok at Pakistan’s request.

The deputy prime minister also lauded officials from the Foreign Office, Ministry of Interior, and Pakistan’s diplomatic missions in Singapore and Thailand for their efforts in completing the operation successfully.