KARACHI,(Parliament Times): The Pakistan Navy has initiated Operation Muhafiz-ul-Bahr to ensure the protection of national shipping and maritime trade routes amid growing regional security concerns and possible disruptions to critical sea lanes, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Monday.
According to the military’s media wing, the operation aims to guarantee the uninterrupted flow of Pakistan’s energy supplies and secure the Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs).
The move comes as tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel, along with disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil shipments pass have heightened fears of a potential fuel shortage in Pakistan and increased volatility in global energy markets.
In response to the evolving crisis, the federal government has introduced emergency measures to ease the economic impact. These include a historic increase of Rs55 per litre in petrol and diesel prices, weekly reviews of fuel rates, and a range of austerity and fuel-conservation steps aimed at reducing non-essential consumption.
The ISPR stated that Pakistan Navy escort operations are being conducted in close coordination with the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC).
“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 carried out via sea routes, the operation seeks to keep vital maritime channels safe and uninterrupted.
The navy has already deployed ships to escort two merchant vessels, one of which is expected to reach Karachi later today.
The ISPR added that the Pakistan Navy remains fully prepared to respond to emerging maritime security challenges and is committed to ensuring the safety of national shipping as well as regional maritime stability.