US Moves Crew of Seized Iranian Ship to Pakistan

The United States has transferred 22 sailors from a seized Iranian cargo vessel to Pakistan, where they will be handed back to Iran on Monday. The move is described by Islamabad as a “confidence‑building measure. ” The ship, named Touska and flagged under Iran’s national carrier IRISL, was boarded by U. S. forces off Chabahar in the Gulf of Oman last month. Washington said the crew ignored repeated warnings over six hours and that the vessel violated a U. S. blockade, prompting its seizure. Iran protested, calling the action unlawful and a breach of international law. Tehran demanded that the ship, its crew, and their families be released immediately.After removal, the vessel will enter Pakistani waters for repairs before returning to its owners. Pakistan’s foreign ministry said the ship would be handed over after necessary fixes are made. The incident occurs amid a broader U. S. –Iran naval standoff that began in February and was briefly paused by a fragile ceasefire. However, both sides have continued to seize each other’s commercial vessels and engage in maritime skirmishes. Last month, Pakistan hosted peace talks between the two countries, but no agreement was reached. The current transfer of crew members may signal a tentative step toward easing tensions, though the underlying conflict remains unresolved.