Karachi (April 12, 2026) — A container ship has docked at Karachi Port for the first time since the Strait of Hormuz reopened, marking a step toward normal shipping after more than a month of serious disruptions caused by conflict in the Middle East.
The vessel, MV SELEN, operated by NLC (AP Line), arrived from Jebel Ali in the United Arab Emirates and berthed at the port on Saturday. The Karachi Port Trust (KPT) confirmed the development, describing it as the first Pakistan-bound container ship to make the journey following the recent troubles in the strait.
The Strait of Hormuz serves as a vital route for much of the world’s oil and other goods. Regional tensions had forced many ships to take longer alternative paths or delay their voyages, affecting trade flows to Pakistan and beyond. During that period, the country managed limited energy imports through other arrangements.
KPT officials noted that the arrival shows better coordination among port authorities, shipping companies, and logistics teams. They added that it brings back some confidence in the usual maritime supply routes.
This comes as a U.S.-Iran ceasefire took hold earlier in the week, with talks between the two sides now underway in Islamabad. While shipping traffic through the strait remains limited and cautious, the docking of MV SELEN signals that container trade is beginning to move again.
Port spokespeople said all ships calling at Pakistani ports during the height of the disruptions had avoided the Gulf routes. The successful berthing of this vessel reflects efforts to restore regular cargo movements.
The broader situation in the Strait of Hormuz is still developing. International reports indicate that only a small number of ships have passed through recently, as shipping companies remain careful about security. Hundreds of vessels had been waiting in the area due to the earlier restrictions.
Background on the disruptions
The conflict led to a sharp drop in traffic through the strait, one of the world’s busiest energy corridors. Pakistan, along with other countries, saw rerouting of cargo and higher costs during the period.
Officials from the port trust said they worked closely with shipping lines to keep operations running as much as possible. The arrival of MV SELEN is viewed as an early sign that container services can resume more normally.
No immediate comments were available from shipping operators on future schedules, but analysts expect a gradual increase in movements if the ceasefire holds and coordination improves.
This development will be watched closely by businesses that rely on timely imports and exports through Karachi, Pakistan’s largest port.
