Islamabad, In response to recent maritime security incidents, the Pakistan Navy has strategically deployed ships in the Arabian Sea, as confirmed by a statement from the Navy spokesperson. The move aims to enhance the security of Pakistan’s vital trade routes, emphasizing the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding maritime peace and order in the region.
The spokesperson highlighted the continuous patrols of ships in the Arabian Sea and ongoing aerial surveillance of commercial passages. These measures are integral to ensuring the safety of both Pakistani and international merchant ships navigating the crucial maritime routes.
The deployment follows heightened concerns after the Indian Navy’s successful rescue of 21 crew members from a vessel in the Arabian Sea following a distress call related to a hijacking attempt. This incident underscores the persistent threats to commercial shipping in the region.
Recent rerouting of vessels from the Red Sea due to drone and missile attacks, attributed to Yemen’s Houthi rebels expressing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, has further amplified security challenges in these waters.
The statement from the Pakistan Navy reiterates its national responsibility and determination to maintain maritime peace, indicating a proactive stance in response to evolving security dynamics in the Arabian Sea.
This move comes amid a resurgence of hijacking and attempted hijacking incidents in the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea, marking the return of piracy after a six-year lull. Analysts suggest that the diversion of US-led anti-piracy naval forces to address challenges in the Red Sea may have emboldened pirates to resume their activities in the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea.