Tanker attack in Hormuz Strait raises questions over Pakistan's understanding with Iran

An LNG tanker travelling from Qatar to Pakistan has been attacked. Following the attack, the diplomatic understanding between Pakistan and Iran to ensure the safety of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz faces a major test.

On 30 October, the tanker 'Al Mayeda', flying the flag of the Marshall Islands, was attacked near the Strait of Hormuz.

The vessel, owned by Nakilat, Qatar's state-owned energy transport company, had 25 crew members on board at the time of the attack. All of them are safe. A small fire broke out on the ship after the attack, and it turned back towards Qatar. It is still not confirmed who was responsible for the attack.

Pakistan had already contacted Iran to ensure the vessel's safe passage. Citing sources, Bloomberg had reported that Tehran had given the tanker permission to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, but the ship was attacked within hours of receiving that permission.

As a result, questions have arisen about how effective Pakistan's diplomatic understanding with Iran really is.

A Nikkei Asia report said that since the war between Iran and the United States and Israel began, Pakistan has faced major disruptions in energy supply. The LNG shortage has forced the country to ration gas and impose restrictions on electricity supply at night.

The sudden attack has renewed concern over the security of Pakistan's energy supply, alongside a push to find alternative sources and transport routes.

Researcher Arhama Siddiqua, however, believes it is still too early to see a single attack as a failure of Pakistan's diplomatic efforts. Confirming the circumstances of the attack and the identity of those responsible is essential, she said.

Meanwhile, Pakistan has moved to buy alternative LNG cargoes for December and January to meet possible winter demand.

With LNG prices in the international market now more than three times higher than before the war began, buying gas from alternative sources could prove expensive for the country.

For Pakistan, this is not just about an attack on one ship; it has also raised the question of energy security. Unless dependence on Qatar is reduced and alternative suppliers and transport routes are secured, the country's energy crisis could become even more severe in the future.