Adnan Aziz to be released by Iranian forces

The Iranian ambassador has confirmed that any Pakistanis on the ship seized by Iranian forces will be released on humanitarian grounds, emphasizing the strong ties between the two nations. The ambassador, Reza Moghadam, mentioned that they are awaiting confirmation of the Pakistani workers' identities on the Israeli ship operated by the Zodiac company. The Iranian authorities have received information from the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs and are in the process of verifying the presence of Pakistani nationals on board. If confirmed, the Pakistanis, including Adnan Aziz, the COO of the Portugal-flagged MSC Aries, will be released in accordance with legal requirements and humanitarian principles.

Reports indicate that Adnan Aziz, along with another Pakistani, was among those captured by Iranian forces. Concerns have been raised by their families in Karachi, Azad Kashmir, and London, who have reached out to the Foreign Office for assistance in ensuring their safe return. The family members expressed shock at the incident, which occurred near the Strait of Hormuz amid heightened tensions following an Israeli attack on Iran’s consulate in Syria.