•Pakistan has canceled its Republic Day parade on March 23 due to a severe energy crisis triggered by oil supply disruptions from the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war and the choking of the Strait of Hormuz.
•Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's office confirmed the decision, citing the Gulf oil crisis and government-announced austerity measures.
•Instead of an elaborate celebration, a simple flag-hoisting ceremony will be held, with ministries directed to observe the occasion with simplicity and dignity.
•The cancellation marks a rare pause in the annual event, which commemorates the adoption of the Pakistan Resolution in 1940 and the nation's formal establishment as a republic in 1956.
•The Strait of Hormuz is crucial for Pakistan, with 85-99% of its crude oil and LNG imports passing through it, leading to a sharp rise in oil prices and a potential doubling of its monthly fuel import bill.
