By Our Diplomatic Correspondent

ISLAMABAD - In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, Pakistan has successfully facilitated the repatriation of 31 nationals, 11 Pakistanis and 20 Iranians, who were aboard vessels seized by the United States on the high seas, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced on the social media platform X today.

"Alhamdolillah, I am pleased to share that we have been successful in the repatriation of 11 Pakistani nationals, alongside 20 nationals of our brotherly country Iran, through Singapore, who were aboard vessels seized in the high seas by the United States," Dar wrote in a detailed post.

The development marks a rare moment of close coordination between Pakistan, Iran, the United States, Singapore, and Thailand -- countries that have often found themselves on opposite sides of regional disputes. The successful repatriation underscores Islamabad's growing role as a diplomatic bridge in complex maritime security incidents.

Dar confirmed that all individuals are in good health and high spirits following their ordeal at sea.

"The welfare and well-being of Pakistanis abroad, particularly those in distress, remains our government's highest priority," he emphasized.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the 31 nationals have already reached Bangkok from Singapore and have boarded a flight scheduled to arrive in Islamabad later tonight. Upon arrival, the Iranian nationals will be further facilitated to return to their homeland through Pakistan's arrangements.

The foreign minister offered special appreciation to Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, as well as the Prime Minister and government of Singapore, for their "continued support and engagement throughout this process, extended at my request."

Dar also thanked his Iranian counterpart, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, "for reposing trust in Pakistan for the repatriation of our Iranian brethren" -- a notable gesture given the historically complex Pakistan-Iran relationship.

The United States government, represented by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, was also acknowledged for "close coordination in facilitating the smooth return of 31 Pakistani and Iranian nationals."

Additionally, Dar expressed gratitude to Thailand's government, represented by Sihasak Phuangketkeow, for facilitating the transit of the individuals through Bangkok at Pakistan's request.

While Dar's statement did not specify the exact nature of the vessels or the circumstances of their seizure, informed sources indicate that the ships were intercepted by US naval forces in international waters as part of ongoing maritime interdiction operations.

The repatriated individuals are expected to land at Islamabad International Airport late tonight, where officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Interior will receive them. Medical teams will be on standby, though Dar confirmed all are reported to be in good health.

The Iranian nationals will remain under Pakistan's care until arrangements are completed for their onward journey to Iran. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is coordinating directly with Tehran to ensure a seamless handover.