ISTANBUL

Pakistan has launched a naval operation to ensure the uninterrupted flow of energy supplies and protect maritime trade routes as tensions remain high in the Middle East, according to an official statement Monday.

"In view of the evolving regional maritime security environment and potential disruptions to critical sea lanes, Pakistan Navy has launched Operation Muhafiz-ul-Bahr to counter multidimensional threats to national shipping and maritime trade," the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing, said in a statement.

The initiative aims to ensure the uninterrupted flow of national energy supplies and safeguard Sea Lines of Communication, the statement added.

The Pakistan Navy is conducting escort operations and monitoring the movement of merchant vessels to ensure their "safe and secure transit."

"With approximately 90% of Pakistan’s trade conducted via sea, the operation aims to ensure that vital sea routes remain safe, secure, and uninterrupted," the statement said. "Pakistan Navy remains fully prepared to respond emerging maritime security challenges and is committed to ensuring the safety of national shipping and regional maritime security."

The development comes amid rising regional tensions linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Authorities also reported that three Pakistani nationals have been killed during the conflict.