The US has blocked two Pakistani ships from entering the Strait of Hormuz. This move has stunned Pakistan. It comes just days before Pakistan hosts peace talks between the US and Iran.
The Incident
On Tuesday, the US military turned away two Pakistani ships near Hormuz. Pakistan had previously received permission from Iran for 20 ships to pass through the Strait. However, despite this, the US halted their passage. The same route saw ships from China and other countries pass freely.
Pakistan has already used four of its allowed passes. However, the US now denies the latest request. The Pakistani government has not issued an official response to the situation.
Pakistan’s Reaction
An official from Pakistan’s maritime department spoke to Al Arabiya. He explained that the country had been less concerned when Iran blocked the route. However, the US intervention has now become a significant issue for Pakistan.
Junaid Anwar Chaudhary, Pakistan’s maritime minister, acknowledged that the country faces challenges similar to those of other nations. He reassured that the government continues efforts to resolve the matter through negotiations.
Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz
The US has intensified its military presence in the region. It has stationed 10,000 soldiers in the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea. Despite these efforts, 20 ships still passed through Hormuz without interruption. The US military intercepted only six ships, two of which were Pakistani.
This setback comes at a crucial moment. Pakistan had hoped to mediate peace talks between Iran and the US. These talks are set to take place in Islamabad in just two days. The US move complicates this diplomatic effort for Pakistan.
