Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 16: In a rare maritime development, naval vessels of India and Pakistan were observed operating just 18 nautical miles apart near the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, amid escalating tensions in West Asia.

The proximity of the warships was flagged by open-source intelligence analyst Damien Symon of The Intel Lab, who noted that both navies appeared to be safeguarding their respective merchant shipping interests in the region.

The development comes as both countries intensify maritime security operations in the Gulf region. The Indian Navy has been actively escorting energy vessels under “Operation Urja Suraksha,” aimed at ensuring safe passage of India-bound shipments of liquefied petroleum gas, liquefied natural gas, and crude oil through volatile waters.

Officials said Indian naval ships are not only escorting vessels through the Strait but also assisting navigation up to the Arabian Sea. In recent weeks, several vessels, including LPG carriers and crude oil tankers, have been safely guided to Indian ports under naval protection.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Navy has also stepped up its escort operations. A Pakistan-flagged crude oil tanker, Sargodha, was recently seen heading towards Karachi under naval escort.

The Strait of Hormuz and adjoining waters of the Gulf of Oman remain critical global energy routes, handling a significant share of the world’s oil trade. Increased naval deployment by regional players reflects growing concerns over potential disruptions to shipping amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia.