Islamabad -UNS: Pakistan’s Foreign Office of Pakistan has confirmed that 22 crew members from a seized vessel have been transferred to Pakistan and will be repatriated to Iran as a goodwill gesture by the United States.
Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said the crew had been onboard the Iranian container ship MV Touska, which was intercepted last month by US forces. The transfer to Pakistan is being described as a “confidence-building measure” aimed at easing tensions.
According to officials, the crew members arrived in Pakistan overnight and are scheduled to be handed over to Iranian authorities. Meanwhile, the vessel itself will be moved into Pakistani waters for necessary repairs before being returned to its original owners.
The ship, linked to Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines, had been seized near the coast of Chabahar in the Gulf of Oman after allegedly violating a US naval blockade. The United States Central Command stated that the crew failed to respond to repeated warnings prior to the interception.
Iran, however, condemned the seizure as unlawful and demanded the immediate release of the vessel and its personnel.
Pakistan is currently facilitating coordination between both sides and has reiterated its commitment to supporting diplomatic efforts and regional stability.
