Pakistan has facilitated the return of crew members from an Iranian vessel seized by the United States, in what officials are calling a key confidence-building measure amid heightened regional tensions.
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, 22 crew members from the Iranian-flagged container ship M/V Touska—which had been intercepted by US forces—were transferred to Pakistan after being evacuated by American authorities. The crew is now being handed over to Iranian officials.
The vessel had earlier been seized by the US Navy near the Strait of Hormuz during enforcement of a maritime blockade targeting Iran-linked shipping. The incident was widely condemned by Tehran and further escalated tensions in the already volatile region.
Officials in Islamabad described the transfer of the crew as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to ease tensions between Washington and Tehran. Pakistan has been actively engaged in mediation and has hosted indirect talks between the two sides in recent weeks.
The development is being viewed as a positive step toward de-escalation, particularly as the region grapples with conflict-related disruptions to global shipping and energy routes.
Pakistan reiterated its commitment to playing a constructive role in promoting dialogue, stability, and peaceful resolution of disputes in the region.