Islamabad – The Pakistan Navy on Monday launched Operation Muhafiz-ul-Bahr to counter “multidimensional threats to national shipping and maritime trade,” the military’s media wing announced, as the ongoing Middle East crisis continues to destabilize the region’s vital waterways.
The operation comes at a time of extreme volatility. Tensions in the Middle East have escalated sharply after US and Israeli air strikes assassinated Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several senior officials, triggering a wave of retaliation from Tehran. The conflict has expanded across the region, with Iran launching retaliatory attacks on US military bases in several Gulf countries.
Why This Operation Matters
The strategic importance of the mission cannot be overstated. The conflict has already led to the suspension of around one-fifth of global crude and natural gas supply, as Tehran targets ships in the vital Strait of Hormuz between its shores and Oman, and attacks energy infrastructure across the region.
According to a press release issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) : “In view of the evolving regional maritime security environment and potential disruptions to critical sea lanes, Pakistan Navy has launched Operation Muhafiz-ul-Bahr to counter multidimensional threats to national shipping and maritime trade.”
Securing the Nation’s Lifeline
The ISPR emphasized that the initiative aims to ensure the uninterrupted flow of national energy supplies and the security of Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) . With approximately 90% of Pakistan’s trade conducted via sea, the operation is critical to the national economy.
“PN escort operations are being conducted in close coordination with the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation. PN is fully cognizant 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 read.
Active Operations Underway
The ISPR confirmed that Pakistan Navy ships are currently escorting two merchant vessels, with one of them scheduled to arrive in Karachi today.
“Pakistan Navy remains fully prepared to respond to emerging maritime security challenges and is committed to ensuring the safety of national shipping and regional maritime security,” it added.
The launch of Operation Muhafiz-ul-Bahr signals Islamabad’s proactive stance in protecting its economic interests amidst a regional war that shows no signs of abating.
