Pakistan has strongly condemned ongoing Houthi threats directed at Saudi Arabia and commercial vessels in the Red Sea, cautioning that the escalation puts regional stability and international trade at risk.
Islamabad’s Foreign Office issued the condemnation on Wednesday, stating that the threats erode freedom of navigation, undermine the rules-based maritime order, and put the steady flow of global commerce in jeopardy.
Foreign Office Calls Threats a Violation of International Law
According to the Foreign Office, any threats aimed at commercial shipping and trade routes linked to Saudi Arabia are unacceptable and breach recognized principles of international law. The ministry further noted its unease over reports that vessels engaged in legitimate trade with the Kingdom were being targeted.
The condemnation follows a period of rising tension, triggered by the Houthis’ declaration of a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia along with threats to strike commercial shipping in the region.
Just last week, Saudi Arabia’s air defenses intercepted ballistic missiles fired from Yemen toward the Kingdom’s southern provinces. A representative of the Saudi-led coalition operating in Yemen confirmed the interceptions, attributing the launches to Houthi militia forces.
Pakistan Warns of Response to Threats Against Its Maritime Interests
In its statement, Pakistan made clear that any hostile action against Pakistani-flagged vessels, or against its broader maritime interests, would be regarded as a serious threat to national security and sovereignty.
Citing the United Nations Charter and international legal norms, the Foreign Office said Pakistan retains the right to take all necessary steps, including lawful self-defense measures, to safeguard its maritime assets and national interests.
The statement additionally voiced concern over efforts to pull Saudi Arabia deeper into the wider Middle East conflict, while reaffirming Islamabad’s steadfast backing of the Kingdom’s security, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and continued prosperity.
Islamabad Urges De-escalation Through Diplomacy
Pakistan closed its statement by reiterating its commitment to dialogue and diplomatic engagement as the path toward regional de-escalation. It urged all parties involved to uphold international law and guarantee the safety of international maritime shipping routes.
As tensions over Red Sea shipping threats continue to mount, Pakistan’s condemnation of the Houthi actions signals growing international concern over the stability of one of the world’s most critical trade corridors.