Pakistan has warned that any attack on an empty Pakistani oil tanker stranded near Saudi Arabia’s East-West Pipeline would be treated as an “act of war.”
Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said the vessel must eventually be moved.
Saudi authorities have asked the tanker to remain on standby for now.
Pakistan Weighs Options for Tanker
Islamabad is considering several options for the stranded vessel.
The tanker could remain near the pipeline until operations resume.
It could also sail home through Oman or the United Arab Emirates.
Pakistan is also exploring alternative crude supplies from countries including Libya.
The Saudi East-West Pipeline was shut after drone attacks.
The pipeline is an important route for moving Saudi oil to the Red Sea while avoiding the Strait of Hormuz.
Fuel Supplies Under Pressure
The regional conflict has increased pressure on Pakistan’s fuel supply chain.
Malik said Pakistan has secured fuel requirements for September and planned for October under adverse conditions.
The government is now working on supplies for November.
Pakistan imports a large share of its petroleum requirements.
Any prolonged disruption to regional shipping routes could create additional supply challenges.
Pakistan Supports Saudi Arabia
Pakistan has strongly condemned attacks on Saudi Arabia’s East-West Pipeline.
The Foreign Ministry said the attacks damaged the pipeline and injured civilians.
Islamabad reaffirmed its support for Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.
Pakistan also called for de-escalation during an emergency UN Security Council meeting on Yemen.
Its representative warned that attacks on Saudi Arabia had brought the regional conflict to a dangerous juncture.
Regional Shipping Routes Disrupted
The pipeline shutdown has added pressure to global oil markets.
The East-West Pipeline can transport millions of barrels of oil daily to Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast.
Its closure has increased concerns over global energy supplies and shipping security.
Pakistan is therefore assessing alternative routes and supply sources as regional tensions continue.
