Operation Muhafiz-ul-Bahr, a Pakistan Navy mission, has begun as authorities move to protect national shipping and maritime trade amid rising regional security tensions and the potential disruption of key sea routes.
The ISPR said the operation aims to keep national energy supplies flowing and secure Sea Lines of Communication. The move comes as conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel, along with disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, raises concern over fuel supplies and maritime trade.
Pakistan has already announced emergency steps to reduce the economic impact of the crisis. These include a Rs55 per litre increase in petrol and diesel prices, weekly fuel price reviews, and austerity measures designed to cut non-essential fuel use.
Pakistan Navy’s Operation Muhafiz-ul-Bahr
According to the ISPR, Pakistan Navy escort operations are underway in close coordination with the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation. The military’s media wing said the navy is actively monitoring and controlling the movement of merchant vessels to support safe transit.
The statement said that around 90% of Pakistan’s trade moves by sea. As a result, the operation seeks to keep vital maritime routes safe, secure and uninterrupted.
The Pakistan Navy is currently escorting two merchant vessels. The ISPR said one of those ships is due to arrive in Karachi today.
Read: Oil Prices Surge to $110 on Iran War as Hormuz Risks Spike
The Navy also said it remains alert to the current maritime situation and stands ready to respond to emerging security challenges. The statement underlined Pakistan’s commitment to protecting national shipping and regional maritime security.
The launch of the operation highlights the growing importance of sea security as regional tensions put pressure on trade routes, fuel imports and economic stability.
