ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Wednesday condemned the Houthi movement’s continued threats against Saudi Arabia and commercial vessels operating in the Red Sea, describing them as a serious risk to regional stability and international trade.
In a statement, the Foreign Office said such actions threaten freedom of navigation, undermine the rules-based maritime system, and disrupt the smooth flow of global commerce. It stressed that targeting commercial shipping, particularly vessels engaged in lawful trade with Saudi Arabia, is unacceptable and contrary to international law.
The statement followed heightened regional tensions after the Houthis announced a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia and warned of potential attacks on commercial ships. The development also comes days after Saudi Arabia intercepted ballistic missiles launched from Yemen by Houthi forces toward the Kingdom’s southern region, according to the Saudi-led coalition.
Pakistan also warned that any attack on Pakistani-flagged ships or the country’s maritime interests would be viewed as a serious threat to its sovereignty and national security. The Foreign Office stated that Pakistan reserves the right, under the UN Charter and international law, to take all appropriate measures, including self-defence, to safeguard its maritime assets and interests.
Expressing concern over what it described as efforts to involve Saudi Arabia further in the ongoing Middle East conflict, Pakistan reaffirmed its strong support for the Kingdom’s security, territorial integrity, sovereignty, and stability.
The Foreign Office concluded by urging all parties to exercise restraint, uphold international law, and ensure the safety of international shipping routes while promoting dialogue and diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions.
