Pakistan raises red flag over Hormuz disruption

April 28, 2026 (MLN):  Pakistan has cautioned that any extended disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could have far-reaching consequences for the global economy, including interruptions in trade flows, shortages in food and energy supplies, and rising inflation, with developing countries likely to face the harshest impact.

It stressed that continued instability in such a vital maritime chokepoint would not only affect the immediate supply of oil, gas, and essential commodities like fertilizers, but also create broader economic challenges, including slower growth, rising current account deficits, and worsening balance-of-payments positions across vulnerable countries.

Speaking during a high-level open debate at the United Nations Security Council on maritime security, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, highlighted the growing importance of secure maritime domains for global peace and economic stability, according to a press release issued.

He noted that Pakistan, as a littoral state in the Indian Ocean region with significant dependence on sea-borne trade, is directly affected by developments in nearby strategic waterways.

The ambassador highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, supported by China, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Egypt.

He reaffirmed Islamabad’s commitment to dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts, while emphasizing the importance of international legal frameworks such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea in maintaining order at sea.

Ambassador Asim further noted that Pakistan continues to play an active role in international maritime security initiatives.

He pointed out that the country recently assumed command of Combined Task Force 150, which focuses on safeguarding maritime routes outside the Arabian Gulf, and previously led Combined Task Force 151 dedicated to counter-piracy operations.

In addition, Pakistan has launched Regional Maritime Security Patrols to help ensure the safety of commercial shipping.

He concluded by warning that weakening global adherence to established rules and norms poses serious risks to peace and development, urging the international community to work collectively to preserve maritime security and uphold the rules-based international order.

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