A Pakistan-flagged liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier, the Al Mayeda, was attacked near the Strait of Hormuz on Friday, despite prior negotiations with Iran for safe passage. According to sources with direct knowledge of the matter, Pakistan had secured approval from Iranian authorities just hours before the incident.
The Marshall Islands-flagged vessel was en route to the Strait of Hormuz, carrying LNG from Qatar, when it came under fire. The sources, who declined to be named as they are not authorized to speak to the media, confirmed that Iran had given the green light for the ship's passage.
The attack raises concerns about the security of maritime trade routes in the region, particularly near the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The incident underscores the delicate balance of negotiations and tensions that govern shipping through these waters.