Iran has granted permission for additional Pakistani vessels to transit the Strait of Hormuz, marking a potential shift toward easing maritime tensions in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
The development comes as regional stakeholders seek to restore shipping flows disrupted by weeks of conflict and uncertainty.
Ishaq Dar announced that Iran has approved the safe passage of 20 more Pakistani-flagged ships through the strategic strait.
“I would like to share the good news that the Iranian government has allowed 20 additional Pakistani ships to pass,” Dar said in a statement on social media platform X.
He added that the transit would be conducted in stages, with two ships crossing the strait each day.
Dar described Iran’s decision as a constructive move that could support broader efforts to reduce tensions and promote stability across the region.
The Strait of Hormuz serves as a vital artery for global energy supplies, particularly oil and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), making any disruption to its operations a matter of international concern.
Tensions escalated sharply following the United States and Israel joint strikes on Iran on February 28, prompting retaliatory attacks by Tehran on Israeli territory and US-linked military sites across the Middle East.
The escalation led to a near-total halt in shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting supply chains and creating uncertainty in global energy markets.
Impact on fuel prices
The suspension of maritime traffic through the strait quickly translated into rising fuel prices in multiple countries, as supply constraints tightened and market volatility increased.
Energy-dependent economies were particularly affected, highlighting the strategic importance of maintaining uninterrupted access to Gulf shipping routes.
Iran’s decision to allow Pakistani ships to resume passage may indicate a gradual reopening of the strait, although risks remain amid the fragile security environment.
Analysts note that continued coordination between regional actors will be essential to ensure safe navigation and prevent further disruptions.
As the situation evolves, the phased return of vessels to the Strait of Hormuz is being closely watched as a key indicator of whether stability can be restored in global energy logistics.
