Pakistan to facilitate return of 30 Iranian nationals

Pakistan to facilitate return of 30 Iranian nationals
U.S. Navy sailors stand small craft action team watch on a catwalk of the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford as it transits the Suez Canal in Egypt, 5 March 2026.
Reuters

Pakistan will facilitate the return of 30 Iranian nationals as part of what officials described as a humanitarian effort carried out in coordination with international partners.

Two groups involved

Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar said the group includes Iranian fishermen and crew members who are expected to pass through the southern port city of Karachi in the coming days before returning to Iran.

According to officials, the group consists of:

  1. Twenty-two Iranian crew members from the vessel Lenore/Davina, which was recently intercepted by U.S. authorities.
  2. Eight Iranian fishermen who were rescued at sea by the British vessel MMA Valour after their boat ran aground.

Pakistan said it is working closely with Iranian, U.S. and UK authorities to ensure the safe transit and timely return of those involved.

In a statement, Muhammad Ishaq Dar said efforts are under way to coordinate logistics and provide the necessary support throughout the process.

“We continue to coordinate closely … to ensure the safe return of our Iranian brothers to their country,” he said.

Humanitarian commitment

The Pakistani government said the move reflects its broader commitment to humanitarian cooperation in the region, particularly in situations involving stranded or rescued individuals.

Officials emphasised that Pakistan would continue to provide support and assistance where needed, describing the repatriation effort as part of ongoing cooperation with neighbouring countries and international partners.

Both groups are expected to arrive in Karachi shortly, where arrangements will be made for their onward journey to Iran. Authorities have not provided a specific timeline but said the process is expected to be completed in the coming days.

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