The Pakistan Navy has launched a major maritime security mission called Operation Muhafiz ul Bahr to protect the country’s vital shipping routes and ensure the safe delivery of energy supplies. The announcement was made by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) as regional tensions continue to rise due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
According to the statement, the operation is designed to safeguard Sea Lines of Communication, which are crucial maritime routes used for transporting fuel, goods, and commercial shipments. These sea routes are extremely important for Pakistan because nearly 90 percent of the country’s international trade is conducted through maritime transport.
Under Operation Muhafiz ul Bahr, the Pakistan Navy has started escorting merchant vessels through sensitive sea lanes to prevent any disruptions in maritime trade. The navy is also working closely with the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) to track and monitor vessels travelling through strategic waters.
Officials say the initiative is necessary due to the growing uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes. The ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel has raised global concerns about possible disruptions in energy shipments passing through the region.
In response to these risks, the Pakistani government has already taken emergency economic measures to reduce the impact of potential fuel shortages. These steps include a significant increase in petrol and diesel prices, frequent reviews of fuel pricing policies, and the introduction of fuel conservation and austerity measures to reduce unnecessary consumption.
The navy confirmed that two merchant vessels are currently being escorted as part of the operation, with one of them expected to reach Karachi port soon. The naval forces are continuously monitoring maritime activity to ensure the safe passage of commercial ships carrying essential supplies.
Officials emphasised that the Pakistan Navy remains fully prepared to respond to emerging maritime security challenges and will continue taking necessary actions to protect national trade routes.
Through Operation Muhafiz ul Bahr, Pakistan aims to maintain secure maritime trade corridors and ensure that energy shipments reach the country without interruption, despite the growing geopolitical tensions affecting global shipping lanes.
