ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Navy has launched Operation Muhafiz-ul-Bahr to safeguard national shipping and maritime trade amid rising regional security threats, the military’s media wing said on Monday.

According to a statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations, the operation aims to ensure the uninterrupted flow of national energy supplies and the security of vital Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs).

The development comes as escalating tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel — along with disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz — have raised concerns about potential fuel shortages and disruptions to global energy supplies.

The Strait of Hormuz is a key global oil transit route, through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil shipments pass.

The ISPR said 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% of Pakistan’s trade conducted through sea routes, the operation aims to ensure that critical maritime supply lines remain safe and uninterrupted.

Officials said Pakistan Navy ships are currently escorting two merchant vessels, one of which is scheduled to arrive in Karachi later today.

The navy reaffirmed its readiness to respond to emerging maritime security challenges and reiterated its commitment to protecting national shipping and regional maritime stability.