The Pakistan Navy has deployed its warships in the Arabian Sea in response to recent incidents of maritime security, according to a statement from a navy spokesperson on Sunday.
The spokesperson emphasized that Pakistan Navy ships are actively patrolling the Arabian Sea to ensure the safety of the country’s trade routes.
This move comes just two days after the Indian Navy reported the successful rescue of 21 crew members from a vessel in the Arabian Sea following a hijacking distress call. This incident marks the latest attack on commercial shipping in the region.
Last month, the Indian Navy had deployed multiple warships in the sea to maintain a deterrent presence after a series of shipping attacks, including a drone strike near India’s coast, which the United States attributed to Iran.
The Iran-backed Houthi militia in Yemen had claimed responsibility for a missile attack on a Pakistan-bound container ship in the Red Sea, aiming to target Israel with drones. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported among the crew of the attacked ship, the United VIII, en route from King Abdullah Port, Saudi Arabia to Karachi.
In the recent statement, the Pakistan Navy highlighted its commitment to continuous aerial surveillance of commercial passages to ensure the safety of both Pakistani and international merchant ships.
The spokesperson affirmed that the Pakistan Navy is fully aware of its national responsibility in maintaining maritime peace and order in the region.
The escalating role of the Houthi militia in Yemen is evident in their attacks on ships in the Red Sea and their firing of drones and missiles at Israel. They claim that these actions support Palestinians in the Gaza war. The involvement of the Houthis increases regional risks, particularly threatening crucial sea lanes through which a significant portion of the world’s oil is transported. The situation is causing concern among states on the Red Sea, as Houthi rockets and drones continue to be directed towards Israel.
