Twenty-two crew members from a seized Iranian vessel were evacuated to Pakistan, officials confirmed Monday. The move reflects coordination between Pakistan, the United States, and Iran amid regional tensions. The development highlights Pakistan’s role in mediation and affects diplomatic engagement in the region.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office said the crew of the Iranian container ship “MV Touska” arrived in the country late Sunday night. Authorities confirmed they will hand over the individuals to Iranian officials later today. The evacuation followed joint efforts to ensure a safe and orderly transfer process.
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Officials also stated the vessel will be returned to Pakistani territorial waters after undergoing necessary repairs. The ship will then be handed back to its original Iranian owners. This step forms part of broader cooperation aimed at resolving the situation smoothly.
Pleased to announce that twenty-two crew members from the seized Iranian container vessel, “MV Touska”, have been safely evacuated to Pakistan.
The individuals were safely flown in Pakistan last night and will be transferred to Iran today. The Iranian ship is also being…
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) May 4, 2026
According to Reuters, US Central Command reported the ship’s crew ignored repeated warnings over six hours. The vessel was reportedly in violation of a US-imposed blockade at the time of seizure. These claims underscore the security concerns that led to the incident.
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Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar welcomed the coordinated efforts by both countries. He expressed appreciation to the United States and Iran for their support. Pakistan reiterated its commitment to dialogue, diplomacy, and mediation for regional peace and security.