US Transfers Crew of Seized Iranian Ship to Pakistan in Confidence-Building Move
Islamabad — The United States has handed over 22 crew members from a seized Iranian vessel to Pakistan as a “confidence-building measure,” Pakistani officials said on Monday, adding that the individuals would be repatriated to Iran.
Pakistan’s foreign office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said the crew members, who had been aboard the MV Touska, were flown into Pakistan overnight and would be handed over to Iranian authorities later in the day.
The vessel was seized by U.S. forces in the Gulf of Oman after it refused orders to alter its course during heightened maritime tensions linked to the standoff in the Strait of Hormuz.
Washington has imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports since last month, part of broader measures amid escalating conflict with Tehran.A spokesperson for the United States Central Command said earlier that the crew had been repatriated to Pakistan, while Iranian media reported that six crew members had already been released and returned to Iran last week.
Andrabi said the vessel would also be moved to Pakistani territorial waters for repairs before being returned, with coordination involving both U.S. and Iranian authorities. He added that Islamabad welcomed the step and would continue efforts to facilitate dialogue.
The transfer comes as Pakistan positions itself as a mediator between Washington and Tehran. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar held talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Sunday to discuss regional developments and diplomatic efforts.
Pakistan has hosted discussions between the two sides since February, though recent attempts at negotiations have not yielded a breakthrough. Tensions have remained high, particularly over control of the Strait of Hormuz, where the U.S. has announced plans to escort commercial vessels in an operation it describes as humanitarian.
