Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly involving Iran, the United States and Israel, have once again brought the Strait of Hormuz into sharp international focus. Measuring only about 34 kilometers at its narrowest point, the Strait constitutes one of the world's most critical energy corridors. In 2025, it facilitated the transit of approximately 20 million barrels of oil per day, accounting for roughly 20% of global petroleum consumption and more than a quarter of all seaborne oil trade (theglobalstatistics.com). Even minor disruptions along this chokepoint can induce immediate volatility in global energy markets, triggering sharp spikes in crude prices and escalating shipping risk premiums. For economies reliant on energy imports, such disturbances translate swiftly into economic and financial instability.

Among these, Pakistan stands out as particularly susceptible. The nation depends heavily on imported fuels to sustain industrial activity, electricity generation and transportation. Domestic crude production remains limited, around 81,000 barrels per day, while consumption approaches 480,000 barrels per day, leaving a substantial deficit that must be met through imports (worldometers.info). Present estimates suggest that 70-80% of Pakistan's........

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