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Pakistani Oil Tanker ‘Karachi’ Crosses Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions
The PNSC tanker ‘Karachi’ safely crosses the Strait of Hormuz toward Pakistan despite regional tensions, marking a risky journey through one of the world’s most strategic waterways.
ND
by News Desk
2026-03-16
Pakistani Oil Tanker ‘Karachi’ Crosses Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions

A crude oil tanker controlled by the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) has reportedly crossed the Strait of Hormuz and is en route to Pakistan, according to a report by Bloomberg on Monday.

The Pakistani-flagged Aframax tanker ‘Karachi’, built in 2022, was tracked in waters near Sohar, Oman on Monday morning. Ship movement data indicated that the vessel passed around the Iranian island of Lark before heading eastward near the Iranian coast, completing its passage through the strait on Sunday evening.

Strategic Importance and Risks

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint, carrying about 20% of the world’s crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Recent tensions in the region have limited shipping movement due to Iranian threats targeting vessels of the United States and allied countries, although Iran has stated that it will not target commercial ships of friendly nations.

The journey of the ‘Karachi’ comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions following the US-Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliatory threats against Gulf shipping lanes.

Global Context

The crossing occurs while Donald Trump and the United States continue pressuring allied countries—including China—to restore safe shipping traffic through the strait. So far, no country has confirmed military support. Britain, Germany, Australia, and Japan have all adopted cautious stances, refraining from providing direct assistance.

The tanker’s safe passage marks a significant event for Pakistan’s energy supply chain amid a highly volatile regional environment and growing concerns over potential disruptions to global oil markets.
Tagged:

Pakistan

StraitOfHormuz

PNSTankerKarachi

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