Pakistan facilitates return of Iranian crew but Project Freedom reignites tensions
- 22 Iranian crew members were evacuated to Pakistan on May 3; 15 have since returned to Iran
- The Iranian-flagged containership Touska will remain in Pakistan for repairs before being returned to its owners
- Project Freedom, announced hours after the crew’s return, drew criticism from Iranian officials as new attacks hit the MEG on May 5
Pakistan referred to the return as a ‘confidence-building measure’ by the US as talks with Iran continue. However, tensions have since escalated following the announcement of Project Freedom, with Iran firmly opposing US interference in the Strait of Hormuz
