Pakistan facilitates transfer of Iranian crew, backs confidence-building, regional diplomacy

58

ISLAMABAD, Monday, May 4, 2026 (WNP): Pakistan has facilitated the transfer of 22 Iranian crew members from a seized container vessel as part of ongoing confidence-building measures supported by the United States, the Foreign Office said on Monday.

According to an official statement, the crew members of the Iranian container ship MV Touska were evacuated to Pakistan and flown into the country late Sunday night. They are scheduled to be handed over to Iranian authorities.

The statement further said that the vessel would be backloaded into Pakistani territorial waters for return to its original owners after undergoing necessary repairs.

The repatriation process is being coordinated with the support and cooperation of both Iranian and US authorities, reflecting a collaborative effort aimed at easing tensions.

Pakistan welcomed the development as a positive step towards building trust and reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating dialogue and diplomacy in pursuit of regional peace and security.

The Foreign Office emphasized that Islamabad would continue its mediation efforts to promote stability in the region through constructive engagement with all stakeholders.