Pakistan Navy launches operation to secure energy shipments

By Our Correspondent
KARACHI: The Pakistan Navy has launched Operation Muhafiz-ul-Bahr to ensure the safety of national shipping and maritime trade amid rising regional tensions and potential disruptions to key sea routes.
According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Monday, the operation aims to safeguard the country’s Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) and ensure the uninterrupted flow of vital energy supplies.
The move comes as escalating tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel, along with instability around the Strait of Hormuz, have raised global concerns about possible disruptions in oil shipments. The strategic waterway carries nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply, and any disturbance could affect Pakistan’s energy imports.
In response to the evolving situation, the federal government has also taken emergency economic measures. These include a record Rs55 per litre increase in petrol and diesel prices, weekly reviews of fuel rates, and a series of austerity and fuel-conservation measures to curb non-essential consumption.
The ISPR said that Pakistan Navy escort operations are being conducted in close coordination with the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) to ensure the secure movement of merchant vessels.
“Pakistan Navy is fully cognisant of the prevailing maritime situation and is actively monitoring and controlling the movement of merchant vessels to ensure their safe and secure transit,” the statement said.
With nearly 90 per cent of Pakistan’s trade conducted through sea routes, the operation is intended to keep vital maritime corridors open and protected.
Currently, Pakistan Navy ships are escorting two merchant vessels, one of which is expected to arrive in Karachi later on Monday.
The navy reaffirmed its readiness to address emerging maritime security challenges and reiterated its commitment to protecting national shipping as well as maintaining regional maritime stability.