ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has stepped up diplomatic efforts to address the rising tensions between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) concerning the ongoing conflict in Yemen. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar are both actively involved in diplomatic outreach, with key meetings expected to facilitate de-escalation.
Sources reveal that Pakistan is working to play a mediatory role to prevent any escalation between the two allied nations. Both leaders are engaging in crucial discussions to address the recent developments and to promote regional stability.
The recent strain in relations was triggered by a Saudi-led air operation targeting a port in Yemen’s Mukalla city. Saudi authorities claim the attack was a response to the UAE-backed aircraft delivering weapons and supplies to Yemeni insurgents. Allegations from Saudi officials suggest that the UAE has been providing arms and logistical support to rebel factions in Yemen.
Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts aim to resolve these differences through dialogue and to uphold peace in the region. In line with this, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reached out to Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan via phone, and both exchanged views on the latest situation.Meanwhile, the President of the UAE is currently in Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan, where Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also traveled for a meeting. The visits highlight Pakistan’s commitment to regional diplomacy amid the ongoing Yemen conflict.
On Tuesday, Saudi Arabia launched airstrikes on the port of Mukalla, a vital Yemeni coastal city. The targets were ships suspected of transporting arms, which Saudi officials claim originated from the UAE’s Fujeirah port and were meant for Yemeni rebel groups.Saudi Arabia has issued a demand for the UAE to withdraw its forces from Yemen within 24 hours, aligning with requests from the Yemeni government, and to halt all military and financial support to insurgents. The Saudi Foreign Ministry reiterated that diplomatic negotiations are the only path to peace in Yemen, condemning UAE’s pressure tactics on the Southern Transitional Council and warning that such actions threaten regional stability.
Saudi officials also issued a firm warning that any threats or interference with regional security will be considered unacceptable, emphasizing that necessary measures will be taken to protect national and regional stability. The Ministry reaffirmed its unwavering support for Yemen’s sovereignty and its commitment to fostering peace and stability in the region.
The situation remains tense as diplomatic channels continue to be active, with regional powers striving to prevent further conflict escalation and to uphold peace in the Gulf and Yemen.
