Pakistan is planning to import oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Iran to secure its energy supplies [1, 2].

This shift in procurement strategy comes as Pakistan seeks to reduce its vulnerability amid rising regional geopolitical tensions. By diversifying its energy sources, the country aims to stabilize its power grid and fuel reserves against external shocks.

Pakistani officials, including Sardar Masood Khan, said the government should actively plan for these energy supplies [2]. The strategy involves the shipment of oil and LNG from Iranian Gulf ports directly to Pakistan [1]. This move follows an agreement announced on May 12, 2026 [1].

The decision to partner with Iran is part of a broader regional trend. According to reports, other nations such as Iraq have also struck energy deals with Tehran as Iran leverages its control over the Strait of Hormuz [1].

Global energy markets have seen an increase in the race to build oil reserves due to the risk of conflict in the region [3]. Pakistan's approach focuses on establishing a more reliable pipeline of resources to avoid the volatility of the spot market. The reliance on Gulf ports for these imports is intended to streamline the logistics of energy transfer between the two neighbors.

Government officials said the planning phase is critical to ensuring the technical and financial viability of the imports. The move represents a strategic pivot toward regional interdependence to safeguard national energy security [1, 2].

“Pakistan is planning to import oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Iran”

Pakistan's move to import energy from Iran signals a prioritization of regional pragmatism over global diplomatic pressures. By securing oil and LNG from a neighbor, Pakistan reduces its reliance on long-distance maritime routes and volatile global pricing, though it potentially increases its exposure to the geopolitical frictions surrounding Iran's international standing.