Islamabad: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has mandated the intensification of efforts to secure the release of ten Pakistani hostages taken by pirates off the Somali coast. Chairing a high-level meeting in Islamabad, he emphasized the need for close coordination with both national and international entities to facilitate the hostages’ safe return.

According to Radio Pakistan, Dar instructed relevant stakeholders to enhance diplomatic engagement with Somali authorities and international organizations. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the situation and expressed solidarity with the hostages’ families, voicing optimism that sustained efforts would yield a positive outcome. The hostages were aboard the MT Honour 25 when it was hijacked.