Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has said that diplomatic contacts are ongoing to secure the safe return of Pakistani and Iranian sailors held on ships reportedly detained by US authorities near Singapore.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, Ishaq Dar said he had spoken with Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and requested assistance in ensuring the welfare and repatriation of 11 Pakistani and 20 Iranian sailors.

He said the vessels are currently located near Singapore’s territorial waters after being allegedly seized by US forces for violating a naval blockade on Iran.

Dar added that he had also held discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and both countries are maintaining close coordination on the situation.

Pakistan, he said, is prepared to facilitate the return of Iranian nationals to Iran via its territory if required.

The deputy prime minister also acknowledged Singapore’s cooperation and said Pakistan’s Foreign Office and relevant agencies are in contact with multiple stakeholders, including US authorities, to ensure the safety and early return of its citizens.