Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar yesterday announced that Pakistan is facilitating the repatriation of 30 Iranian nationals, reaffirming the country’s commitment to humanitarian cooperation and regional goodwill. In a post on X, Dar said the group comprises two separate categories of Iranian citizens. The first includes eight Iranian fishermen who were rescued at sea by the British vessel MMA Valour after their fishing boat ran aground. The second group consists of 22 Iranian crew members from the vessel Lenore Davina, who were recently interdicted by United States authorities.
Transit Through Karachi
He said both groups are expected to transit through Karachi in the coming days before being returned safely to Iran. The DPM noted that Pakistan is working closely with the authorities of Iran, the United States and the United Kingdom to ensure smooth transit arrangements and the earliest possible return of the Iranian nationals to their homeland.
Humanitarian Commitment
“Pakistan remains committed to humanitarian cooperation and to extending every possible assistance to our Iranian brethren,” Dar said, emphasizing that humanitarian considerations transcend political differences and remain a key pillar of Pakistan’s foreign policy.
The development highlights Pakistan’s role as a responsible regional actor that continues to support humanitarian initiatives and facilitate cooperation among countries in times of need. Islamabad has frequently assisted in the evacuation, transit and repatriation of foreign nationals during emergencies and has maintained close coordination with neighboring countries on humanitarian matters.
Diplomatic Context
The repatriation effort also comes against the backdrop of Pakistan’s consistent support for diplomacy, dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution in the region. Pakistan has repeatedly called for restraint and de-escalation amid tensions involving Iran and the United States, stressing that confrontation and military escalation serve neither regional stability nor international peace.
Islamabad has maintained cordial relations with Tehran while also engaging constructively with Washington, positioning itself as a supporter of diplomatic engagement and confidence-building measures. Pakistani leaders have consistently underscored the importance of resolving disputes through negotiations, mutual respect and adherence to international law.
Regional Stability
In recent months, Pakistan has welcomed efforts aimed at reducing tensions between Iran and the United States, arguing that improved relations between the two countries would contribute significantly to peace, economic stability and security across the broader Middle East and South Asia.
