Cairo, Egypt – Intensive efforts led by the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs over the past months have secured the release of the two Egyptian sailors detained aboard the vessel “Reem Al-Khaleej” (or Reem Al-Bihar) in the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas since their arrest last January. Egyptian diplomatic efforts resulted in their safe departure from Iranian territory, and their return home was facilitated. The Egyptian Interests Section in Tehran completed all necessary consular arrangements for their repatriation to Cairo.
High-level actions and presidential and consular follow-up
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel-Aty played a central role in this matter, conducting high-level diplomatic contacts with the Iranian side to press for the sailors’ release. In the same vein, Abdel-Aty issued strict instructions to the Egyptian Interests Section in Iran to visit the sailors aboard the ship and check on their health and living conditions. He also directed them to provide all necessary support and assistance throughout their detention. Furthermore, he tasked the ministry’s consular department with holding regular meetings with the sailors’ families, keeping them informed of the latest developments and the efforts being made to ensure their safety.
Official reception for families and securing their return to Cairo
As part of ongoing communication with the sailors’ families, Ambassador Haddad El-Gohary, Assistant Foreign Minister for Consular Affairs and Egyptians Abroad, met with the families at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters, where he briefed them on the details of the government’s efforts, which culminated in complete success. Separately, the head of the Egyptian Interests Section in Tehran made a point of meeting with the sailors personally before their departure from Iran to Cairo. He wanted to ensure their well-being and accompany them until all travel arrangements were completed and they returned safely.
