Pakistan has cancelled its March 23 Republic Day parade this year, opting for subdued celebrations as the West Asia war-driven oil crisis strains the country's fuel supplies, according to a statement from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's office cited by Arab News.
Traditionally, Pakistan Day is marked with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad, 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals, and a large-scale military parade showcasing the armed forces. However, officials said the occasion will now be observed with simple flag-hoisting ceremonies. This marks a rare suspension of the events of the day, which commemorates the adoption of the historical Pakistan Resolution at the 27th annual meeting of the Muslim League in 1940.
"This measure is being taken to ensure that the resilience and unwavering commitment of the nation to the ideals of Pakistan Day remain aligned with the broader austerity framework," the Prime Minister's office said in a statement.
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The decision comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, where the United States and Israel launched a military campaign against Iran on February 28. Tehran has responded with counterattacks targeting US bases in the Gulf countries, as well as commercial and oil infrastructure.
The conflict has disrupted energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global chokepoint that handles roughly one-fifth of the world's oil and a significant share of liquefied natural gas exports, intensifying supply pressures for import-dependent economies like Pakistan.
Facing rising fuel costs and limited supply, the government last week unveiled a series of austerity measures aimed at curbing energy consumption and stabilising the economy. "To stabilise the economy we have taken difficult decisions," Sharif said in a televised address, adding that the government is attempting to minimise the burden on citizens despite having limited control over global oil prices.
As part of the fuel-saving drive, the Pakistan authorities said that the schools will shut for two weeks, while universities will shift to online classes to reduce commuting, Government offices will operate on a four-day work week, only 50% of staff will be required to work in offices, except for essential services, fuel allowances for government departments will be cut by half for two months and up to 60% of official vehicles, excluding buses and ambulances, will be taken off the roads.
"Ministries, divisions and departments are advised to mark the (Republic Day) occasion in a solemn and respectful manner, ensuring that the essence of the day is preserved despite the scaled-down celebrations," the statement from the PM's office added.
Pakistan, which relies heavily on imported energy, has already seen a sharp rise in fuel prices as the ongoing conflict threatens global supply chains and amplifies volatility in oil markets.
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