Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced on Friday that Pakistan had successfully repatriated 11 Pakistani nationals and 20 Iranian nationals who were aboard a vessel seized by the United States in international waters. The announcement was made via a statement on social media platform X, as reported by Dawn newspaper.
The vessel, identified as the 'Lady R', was reportedly carrying oil from Iran to China when it was intercepted by the US Navy in February 2024. The ship was later taken to the US, where legal proceedings ensued. The Pakistani and Iranian crew members were detained during the seizure.
Dar expressed satisfaction with the repatriation, stating, 'I am pleased to announce the successful repatriation of 11 Pakistani nationals and 20 Iranian nationals who were aboard a vessel seized by the United States in the high seas.' He thanked the Iranian government for its cooperation and the Pakistani embassy in Washington for its efforts.
The repatriation was carried out in coordination with Iranian authorities, and the individuals arrived in Pakistan on a flight from the US. The development marks a resolution to a complex diplomatic situation involving multiple countries.
