Iran allows 20 more Pakistani ships through Hormuz in diplomatic breakthrough

Iran has agreed to permit 20 additional Pakistani-flagged vessels to transit the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, establishing a daily passage schedule of two ships, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced on Saturday.

The development comes as maritime security in the Gulf region remains under close watch, with shipping movements through the narrow waterway carrying heightened economic and strategic significance.

In a message shared on his official X account, Dar welcomed Tehran’s decision, terming it a constructive and peace-oriented gesture that reflects cooperation between the two countries. He said the arrangement would help maintain a consistent maritime flow and contribute to stability in the region.

Officials view the approval as a confidence-building measure that signals a willingness by both sides to support dialogue and reduce tensions in the Middle East, particularly at a time when uninterrupted shipping through key energy corridors is critical for trade and supply chains.

The new transit plan ensures that Pakistani vessels will continue to move through the Strait in an organized manner, reinforcing bilateral coordination between Islamabad and Tehran while safeguarding commercial shipping operations.