Saudi oil tanker departs Strait of Hormuz for Pakistan

Ship-tracking data shows ​a Pakistan-bound oil tanker passing through the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend, indicating ‌that some countries are able to negotiate safe passage for their vessels despite the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran.

This key route carries one-fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas. Energy prices surged worldwide. Yet Iran allows select vessels to pass. A Pakistani tanker named Karachi broke through safely. Pakistan National Shipping Corporation operates it. The Aframax vessel loaded crude oil at Das Island in Abu Dhabi around March 15.

It sailed along Iran’s side of the strait before heading east to Karachi. Tracking data shows arrival expected on March 17. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent noted that some Indian, Chinese, and Iranian tankers also passed. Data firm Kpler called Karachi the first non-Iranian cargo broadcasting its signal. This suggests negotiated safe passage for key shipments.

Pakistan walks a careful diplomatic path. It enjoys strong ties with Iran, the US, and Saudi Arabia. The nation depends on Gulf oil imports through the strait. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi thanked Pakistan for solidarity. Pakistan’s navy launched an operation last week to protect shipping lanes. It escorts merchant vessels amid rising tensions.

A military source said no escort needed for Pakistani ships after talks with Iran. Another PNSC tanker, Lahore, loaded crude at Saudi Arabia’s Yanbu port. It nears Pakistan, about three days away. Finance ministry assured comfortable petroleum stocks for March and mid-April. Pakistan diversifies fuel sources to ease risks. Global markets watch closely as tensions grow. Pakistan balances friendships while securing energy needs.