In meeting with IMO chief, Dar calls for 'urgent intervention' for return of Pakistani sailors held by Somali pirates

Pakistan has formally requested the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to take "urgent and effective institutional intervention" to secure the release of 10 Pakistani sailors captured by Somali pirates. The plea was made by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar during a meeting with IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez in London.

The sailors are crew members of the Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Honour 25, which was hijacked off the coast of Puntland, Somalia, on April 21, 2026. Four months into their captivity, negotiations and ransom payments, reportedly around $3 million, have stalled, raising serious concerns about the hostages' declining health. Crew members have released emotional appeals, reporting shortages of clean water, food, and medicine.

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urgent and effective institutional intervention

Adding to the complexity, the sailors are reportedly caught in an "ownership crisis" concerning the vessel, with the presumed owner possibly being a middleman. The crew also includes seven Indonesians, an Indian, and a Sri Lankan national.

During his London visit, Dar also emphasized Pakistan's "longstanding commitment" to the IMO, recognizing its role in international shipping safety and security. He highlighted Pakistan's ongoing efforts to enhance maritime governance, implement global standards, and develop its blue economy. Discussions also covered strengthening cooperation in maritime safety, security, regulatory reforms, and sector development.

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longstanding commitment