ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is facilitating the repatriation of 30 Iranian nationals, including fishermen rescued at sea and crew members from a vessel interdicted by US authorities, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said on Wednesday.
The operation is the latest in a series of efforts by Islamabad to assist Iranian nationals affected by the conflict between Washington and Tehran.
Dar said all the Iranian nationals were expected to transit through the southern Pakistani city of Karachi in the coming days.
“Pakistan is pleased to facilitate the repatriation of 30 Iranian nationals,” he said in a post on X.
“This includes 8 Iranian fishermen rescued at sea by the British vessel MMA Valour after their boat ran aground, and 22 Iranian crew members from the vessel Lenore/Davina, recently interdicted by US authorities.”
Dar said Pakistan was working closely with Iranian, US and British authorities to ensure the safe return of the group.
“We remain in close coordination with the Iranian, US and UK authorities to ensure the safe transit and early return of our Iranian brethren to their homeland,” he added.
The announcement came as the US and Iran prepare to begin negotiations on a permanent settlement following months of conflict that disrupted regional shipping and energy supplies.
Dar said Pakistan remained committed to humanitarian cooperation and would extend all possible assistance to Iranian nationals.
Pakistani officials have said their country maintained communication channels with both sides throughout the crisis, facilitating meetings and relaying messages as part of broader efforts to reduce tensions and support a diplomatic resolution.
