Pakistan’s energy security under threat amid Mideast tensions, Strait of Hormuz disruptions

2026-03-04 - 07:13

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s energy security is under serious threat following heightened tensions in the Middle East and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for global oil supplies. The crisis began on February 28, 2026, when the United States and Israel launched Operation Epic Fury, targeting Iran’s military infrastructure, nuclear sites, and political leadership. Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was reportedly killed in the initial strikes. In retaliation, Iran launched missile attacks on Israeli cities and US bases in the Gulf, hitting infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that any vessel attempting to navigate the Strait of Hormuz would be targeted. By March 1, tanker traffic reportedly fell by 86 percent, and by March 2, the strait was declared formally closed. By March 3, no tankers broadcasting identification signals were detected in the waterway. The disruption poses a severe challenge for Pakistan, which imports around 300,000 barrels of crude oil per day, while domestic production stands at roughly 70,000 barrels. The Oil & Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) had previously warned that domestic reserves would be depleted by 2025 — a prediction now confirmed. Approximately 70 percent of Pakistan’s petrol consumption relies on imports, with refineries dependent on crude shipments by sea from Gulf suppliers. Unlike countries such as South Korea or the European Union, which maintain months of emergency fuel reserves, Pakistan currently holds only about 30 days of petrol in strategic stock. Operating under a $7 billion, 37-month International Monetary Fund Extended Fund Facility — its 24th IMF programme — the country faces limited flexibility to manage supply disruptions. The energy and security analysts warn that the combination of a blocked Strait of Hormuz, regional conflict and instability along Pakistan’s western border could lead to immediate fuel shortages. The experts have called for urgent development of strategic reserves and alternative import channels to safeguard the country’s energy supply. No official statement has yet been issued by the government regarding contingency plans or emergency measures. US orders non-emergency employees and families to leave two Pakistani cities