Thailand Seeks Pakistan Help to Secure Ships in Hormuz Strait

Thailand Seeks Pakistan Help to Secure Ships in Hormuz Strait

BANGKOK, April 13, 2026 — Thailand has launched a diplomatic push to secure the safe passage of cargo ships stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, seeking assistance from Pakistan amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said nine Thai-linked vessels carrying fertiliser shipments critical to the country’s agricultural sector remain affected by instability in the region.

Sihasak met Pakistan’s ambassador to Thailand, Rukhsana Afzaal, to explore possible mediation with Iran, noting Pakistan’s previous role in facilitating safe passage arrangements for vessels in the strategic waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy and trade corridors, handling a significant share of global maritime traffic. Recent geopolitical tensions have heightened risks for shipping in the area.

Thailand is seeking to replicate earlier arrangements under which certain vessels were allowed safe transit, as delays in fertiliser deliveries could disrupt agricultural production and affect rural livelihoods.

“We must expedite the passage of these ships to ensure there is no disruption to our farming community,” Sihasak said.

The diplomatic effort will continue through regional and bilateral channels. The minister is set to join a special ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting on the Middle East crisis and will visit Oman later this week to engage with officials there.

Oman, which shares control over the Strait of Hormuz with Iran, is seen as a key partner in efforts to secure safe navigation.

Officials said the outcome of the talks will be crucial in resolving the immediate supply risk, as Thailand moves to safeguard food security and limit the economic impact of prolonged disruptions.