Saudi Oil-Laden Tanker Departs Strait of Hormuz Bound for Pakistan

A tanker carrying approximately 650,000 barrels of Saudi crude oil has successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz and is now heading toward Pakistan, according to vessel-tracking data.

The vessel, identified as the P. Aliki, hugged the Iranian coastline during its passage, a route increasingly used by ships navigating the strategically vital waterway amid ongoing regional tensions.

In a related development on Saturday, a total of seven vessels were observed leaving the Persian Gulf. These included the Saudi crude oil tanker bound for Pakistan, two LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) tankers, and four bulk carriers, one of which is also reportedly heading to Pakistan.

The movements come as shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz remains significantly below normal levels due to heightened security concerns in the region. Pakistan has secured arrangements with Iran allowing safe passage for several vessels, including Pakistani-flagged ships, to ensure the continued flow of essential energy imports.

Local shipping sources indicate that the oil tanker and another vessel are expected to reach Pakistani ports, likely Karachi or Port Qasim, around March 31.

This transit highlights Pakistan’s efforts to maintain energy supplies from Saudi Arabia despite disruptions in the Persian Gulf. Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) vessels and chartered tankers have been actively involved in these operations, with some rerouting considered via alternative paths like the Red Sea port of Yanbu when needed.

The development is being closely monitored by global energy markets as the Strait of Hormuz accounts for a significant portion of the world’s seaborne oil and gas trade.