Pakistani Diplomatic Success: 22 Crew Members of Iranian Ship Held by US Released

Islamabad. Pakistan has successfully mediated the release of 22 crew members who had been held aboard an Iranian container ship seized by the United States last month. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Monday that the move was undertaken as a confidence-building measure by the United States, under which the crew members from the Iranian vessel MV Touska were evacuated and flown to Pakistan overnight.

According to the ministry, the individuals will be handed over to Iranian authorities later on Monday. It added that the vessel will also be transported to Pakistani territorial waters and returned to its original owners after undergoing necessary repairs.

The process is being coordinated with the support of both Iranian and US sides, the ministry said. Pakistan welcomed the development, describing it as a positive step, and reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating dialogue and diplomacy while continuing mediation efforts for regional peace and security.