Islamabad, 3 October, 2026 (Nosheen): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has announced financial assistance of Rs12.5 million for each family of three Pakistani nationals who were killed during a Somali operation to rescue hostages held by pirates. The prime minister also announced free education and healthcare for the children of the deceased, along with a house for each bereaved family. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif telephoned Azhan Kashif, son of Pakistani national Syed Kashif Umar, and expressed his heartfelt condolences over the death of his father. He said the government shared the grief of the bereaved families and would provide them with all possible support during this difficult time. The prime minister said the families of Syed Kashif Umar, Mahmood Ahmed Ansari and Rafiullah Khan would each receive Rs12.5 million in government financial assistance. He further directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant institutions to accelerate efforts to repatriate the bodies of the deceased Pakistanis and maintain continuous contact with Somali authorities and other concerned parties. He also directed authorities to ensure the best possible medical treatment for Pakistanis injured in Somalia and continue efforts for the safe return of other Pakistani crew members. Five people were reportedly killed during the Somali forces’ operation to rescue the crew of the vessel Honor 25, which had allegedly been held hostage for five months, with three Pakistani nationals among those killed.