Pakistan Tries to Open the Strait of Hormuz for Peace

Pakistan welcomed officials from Turkey, Egypt and Saudi Arabia to discuss ways to calm tensions with Iran. The meeting began by talking about how to let ships safely cross the Strait of Hormuz again. This waterway is a key route for oil and gas that supplies about one‑fifth of the world. Iran has stopped ships from passing there after U. S. and Israeli air attacks last month. Oil prices have risen sharply because of the fighting between Iran, the U. S. and Israel. Pakistan has good ties with both Tehran and Washington. It used this position to act as a middleman in the conflict. Turkey, Egypt and Saudi Arabia also offered ideas for restoring shipping traffic.One suggestion is to create a group that would manage oil flow through the strait, similar to how the Suez Canal charges fees. Pakistan said it had sent these ideas to the White House before the talks. The group could help keep ships moving safely and build trust among the parties. A Turkish diplomat said Ankara wants a ceasefire first, but safer shipping could help that goal. Pakistan’s foreign minister met separately with Turkish and Egyptian counterparts, urging continued dialogue. The U. S. Vice President has spoken regularly with Pakistan’s army chief about the situation. Iran reportedly allowed 20 more Pakistani ships to pass through after the meeting. The plan is still early, but Pakistan hopes its role will help bring peace to a region that depends on the strait for energy.