The bodies of two Pakistani sailors killed in a Houthi attack have returned to Karachi, along with six injured sailors.
The sailors were aboard the Tanzania-flagged commercial vessel Tihamah when it came under attack in the Red Sea on August 11.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed the sailors’ return in a post on X on Thursday.
Six Injured Pakistani Sailors Return Home
Dar said six Pakistani sailors injured in the attack had safely returned to Pakistan.
“The six Pakistani sailors injured in the recent Houthi attack on a Tanzanian-flagged commercial vessel have safely returned to Pakistan,” Dar said.
He also confirmed that the remains of two Pakistani sailors killed in the attack had been repatriated.
“All relevant stakeholders have been directed to ensure their safe, dignified and expeditious repatriation,” Dar said.
The return brings the injured sailors back to Pakistan while their families receive the remains of those who lost their lives.
Officials Facilitate Sailors’ Repatriation
Dar praised Pakistani diplomatic officials for helping bring the sailors and deceased home safely.
He specifically appreciated the Consulate General of Pakistan in Jeddah and the Pakistani Embassy in Riyadh.
Their efforts helped facilitate the sailors’ return and the repatriation of the deceased.
Pakistan does not have a diplomatic mission in Yemen, which added challenges to the repatriation process.
Dar also appreciated the Federal Investigation Agency for facilitating the sailors’ arrival in Pakistan.
Meanwhile, he thanked Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry for its cooperation during the process.
Saudi authorities also assisted by providing medical support and making arrangements for the sailors in Jeddah.
Pakistan Condemns Attack on Sailors
Dar reiterated Pakistan’s condemnation of the attack on the commercial vessel and expressed concern over the safety of seafarers.
He stressed that the safety and security of sailors must remain a priority at all times.
The government also pledged continued support for the injured sailors and the families of those who died.
“We remain committed to extending all possible assistance to the injured sailors and the bereaved families,” he said.
The repatriation brings an end to a difficult journey for the injured Pakistani sailors and the families awaiting their loved ones’ remains.
