ISLAMABAD: Iran said that they would release Pakistanis, stranded on ship seized by Iranian forces, after confirmation of their nationalities and completing legal formalities due to brotherly ties between two countries.

Iranian envoy to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, informed that they were waiting for confirmation of presence of Pakistani nationals on ship.

He confirmed that Iran Embassy has shared details with higher officials in Tehran. “If there’s Pakistani on ship, we will free national after completing legal formalities considering brotherly ties,” diplomat said.

On Sunday, Foreign Office had taken up matter with Iranian authorities in Islamabad and shared details with them, sources told. Development came after family of Chief Operating Officer of Israel-linked container ship seized by Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps asked government of Pakistan for help.

His family lives in Karachi and Azad Kashmir and some of his relatives live in London who shared their worries with media. They confirmed that Aziz, along with another Pakistani, was on ship seized by Iran’s forces.

Vessel identified as Portugal-flagged MSC Aries had departed from port in United Arab Emirates en route to India.

Published in The Daily National Courier, April, 16 2024

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