Pakistan’s Foreign Office has confirmed a major diplomatic development involving the release and repatriation of Iranian crew members detained during a maritime incident last month.
According to FO spokesperson Tahir Andrabi, 22 Iranian crew members aboard the seized container ship MV Touska have been evacuated to Pakistan as part of what officials describe as a “confidence-building measure”.
The move follows coordination involving the United States military command, which had earlier transferred the crew to Pakistan for repatriation after the vessel was intercepted during an attempted breach of a reported naval blockade.
Six additional individuals, identified in Iranian media as family members of the crew, were previously relocated to another regional country.
The MV Touska, linked to Iran’s shipping network, was seized near the waters off Chabahar in the Gulf of Oman after U.S. forces alleged repeated non-compliance with warnings issued over several hours.
The United States Central Command stated that the vessel was in violation of enforcement measures, while Iranian authorities strongly condemned the action as unlawful and a breach of international law, demanding the immediate release of the ship and its personnel.
The Foreign Office confirmed that the crew members were flown to Pakistan and are expected to be handed over to Iran as part of ongoing diplomatic coordination.
Officials also stated that arrangements are underway for the return of the vessel to its original owners after necessary repairs, with both Iranian and U.S. sides involved in coordination efforts.
Pakistan has emphasized that it will continue facilitating dialogue and supporting mediation initiatives aimed at regional stability, peace, and diplomatic resolution.
