Pakistan Shuts Ports to Indian-Flagged Vessels Amid Escalating Tensions

Report by Muhammad Furqan

Pakistan has enforced a complete and immediate ban on the entry of all Indian-flagged ships at its ports in a decisive response to India’s aggressive policies and unsubstantiated accusations.

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has issued an official directive, confirming that Indian commercial vessels are no longer permitted to dock at any Pakistani port. In addition, Pakistani-flagged vessels have been barred from accessing Indian ports, signaling a significant escalation in bilateral maritime restrictions.

This action follows India’s baseless allegations against Pakistan over the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, which left 26 tourists dead. India not only suspended the Indus Waters Treaty but also directed Pakistani nationals to exit the country immediately.

In a swift countermeasure, Pakistan sealed its airspace to Indian aircraft and, on April 24, halted all direct and indirect trade with India, including through third-party nations.

Islamabad has demanded an impartial international investigation into the Pahalgam incident—an offer that New Delhi has yet to address. The global response has largely supported Pakistan’s call for transparency and restraint.

China, Türkiye, and Switzerland have publicly endorsed Pakistan’s position. Türkiye, in particular, has condemned India’s inflammatory rhetoric and declared its full backing of Pakistan’s sovereignty and regional stability.

Pakistan’s leadership reiterated its unwavering resolve to safeguard national interests and security, stressing that any hostile act will be met with a firm and proportionate response.