In a gesture of goodwill reflecting the enduring ties between Iran and Pakistan, Iran has announced its intention to release Pakistani nationals stranded on a ship seized by Iranian forces. The decision comes after diplomatic efforts and assurances from the Iranian envoy to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moqadam, who emphasized the importance of the two countries’ fraternal relationship.
Moqadam stated that Iran awaits confirmation of the presence of Pakistani nationals aboard the seized vessel. Once confirmed, necessary legal formalities will be completed, culminating in the release of Pakistani citizens, in accordance with the strong bond between the nations.
The development follows concerted efforts by the Foreign Office in Pakistan, which engaged with Iranian authorities to address the situation promptly. Family members of one of the stranded Pakistanis, Muhammad Adnan Aziz, the Chief Operating Officer of the vessel, appealed to the Pakistani government for assistance in ensuring his safe return.
Expressing concern over the ordeal faced by their relative, Aziz’s family clarified that he was merely fulfilling his professional duties and had no involvement in the vessel’s ownership or the regional tensions prompting its seizure. Their appeal for intervention underscores the urgency of the situation and the earnest desire for a swift resolution.
The seized vessel, identified as the Portugal-flagged MSC Aries, is associated with Zodiac Maritime, a company affiliated with Israeli billionaire Eyal Ofer’s Zodiac Group. The multinational crew aboard the ship includes individuals from India, the Philippines, Russia, Estonia, and Pakistan.
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