Pakistan Navy launches Operation Muhafiz-ul-Bahr to secure sea lanes, energy supply

The Pakistan Navy has launched Operation Muhafiz-ul-Bahr to safeguard maritime trade and protect critical sea routes amid an evolving regional maritime security environment, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Monday.

The operation aims to counter multidimensional threats to national shipping and ensure the uninterrupted flow of energy supplies through key Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs).

According to the statement, naval escort operations are being conducted in coordination with the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) to ensure the safe and secure transit of merchant vessels.

The navy said it is closely monitoring the prevailing maritime situation and controlling the movement of merchant ships operating in Pakistan’s maritime domain.

“With approximately 90% of Pakistan’s trade conducted via sea, the operation seeks to ensure that vital sea routes remain safe, secure and uninterrupted,” the statement said.

Currently, Pakistan Navy ships are escorting two merchant vessels, one of which is scheduled to arrive in Karachi later on Monday.

The navy reaffirmed that it remains fully prepared to respond to emerging maritime security challenges and is committed to ensuring the safety of national shipping as well as contributing to regional maritime security.