Pakistan Seeks Singapore’s Help for Repatriation of Pakistanis, Iranians From US-Seized Vessels

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said on Friday that Pakistan is actively working with Singapore and Iran to ensure the safe welfare and repatriation of Pakistani and Iranian nationals aboard vessels seized by the United States near Singaporean waters.

In a statement shared on X, Dar revealed that he had spoken with Vivian Balakrishnan and requested Singapore’s support in facilitating the return of 11 Pakistanis and 20 Iranians currently onboard the detained vessels.

Dar also confirmed that he held discussions with Abbas Araghchi as Islamabad remains in close coordination with Tehran over the matter.

“Pakistan also stands ready to facilitate the safe repatriation of Iranian nationals to Iran via Pakistan,” Dar stated, while appreciating Singapore’s cooperation and assistance.

He added that Pakistan’s Foreign Office and relevant authorities were maintaining close contact with US officials and other stakeholders to ensure the safety, welfare, and earliest return of Pakistani citizens.

According to the Foreign Office, the conversation between Dar and Singapore’s foreign minister also covered maritime security issues and recent incidents in international waters. Both sides agreed to enhance coordination between relevant authorities and maintain close diplomatic engagement.

The FO further said the Singaporean minister appreciated Pakistan’s role in promoting regional peace and stability through dialogue facilitation between the United States and Iran.

The development comes shortly after Pakistan facilitated the repatriation of crew members from another US-seized Iranian-linked vessel, with at least 15 sailors returning to Iran earlier this week as part of confidence-building measures.

The vessel, reportedly linked to the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL), was intercepted and seized by US forces on April 19 near Iran’s Chabahar port in the Gulf of Oman.

According to the US Central Command, the Iranian-flagged ship allegedly ignored repeated warnings over a six-hour period and violated the US maritime blockade.

Tensions in the region have sharply escalated since the United States and Israel launched military strikes against Iran on February 28, leading Tehran to tighten restrictions around the strategic Strait of Hormuz shipping route.

Several vessels attempting to pass through the vital waterway have reportedly come under attack, while Iran has also seized multiple ships amid the worsening standoff.