Pakistan has sought Singapore’s assistance in ensuring the welfare and repatriation of Pakistani and Iranian nationals aboard vessels seized by the United States (US), according to Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
Read More: Pakistan receives Iranian crew after US seizure
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Ishaq Dar said he held a conversation with Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, requesting support in facilitating the safe return of 11 Pakistanis and 20 Iranians currently on board the affected vessels.
Spoke with Singaporean Foreign Minister H. E. Vivian Balakrishnan @VivianBala and requested Singapore’s support in facilitating the welfare and repatriation of 11 Pakistani and 20 Iranian seafarers, aboard vessels seized by U.S. authorities and currently near Singaporean waters.…
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) May 8, 2026
Dar noted that the vessels are presently located near Singaporean waters. He also said he had spoken with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, adding that Pakistan is maintaining close coordination with Tehran on the matter.
He further stated that Pakistan is prepared to facilitate the repatriation of Iranian nationals to Iran via Pakistani territory, highlighting Islamabad’s willingness to assist in humanitarian and logistical arrangements.
DPM/FM Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 spoke today with Foreign Minister of Iran Abbas Araghchi @Araghchi.
The two exchanged views on recent regional developments and ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability.
FM Araghchi briefed the DPM/FM on… pic.twitter.com/fjODsbcGQ7
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) May 7, 2026
The Deputy Prime Minister said Pakistan appreciates Singapore’s cooperation and reaffirmed that relevant Pakistani authorities and the Foreign Office are actively coordinating with US officials and other stakeholders to ensure the safety and early return of the affected individuals.
Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 spoke today with Singapore’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan @VivianBala.
The Singaporean Foreign Minister appreciated DPM/FM’s efforts and Pakistan’s role in promoting peace and stability… pic.twitter.com/4SsGRjnK3Y
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) May 7, 2026
According to the Foreign Office, the Singaporean foreign minister appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and its role in promoting regional peace and stability, particularly through facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran.
Both sides reportedly discussed maritime issues and recent incidents in international waters, agreeing to maintain close coordination between relevant authorities.
The FO added that the two ministers also reviewed bilateral relations and underscored the importance of continued high-level exchanges.
The development follows earlier efforts in which Pakistan facilitated the return of crew members from a US-seized Iranian vessel, as part of broader confidence-building measures between the involved countries.
The seized vessel was reportedly taken by US forces in April after allegations of sanctions violations and non-compliance with warnings issued at sea.
Read More: Iran Receives Crew of Seized Vessel from Pakistan Transfer
Pakistan has positioned itself as a facilitator in maritime humanitarian cases linked to regional tensions, maintaining communication with multiple countries involved in recent naval and shipping incidents.