Islamabad: Pakistan has unequivocally condemned the threats issued by the Houthi militia against Saudi Arabia and commercial shipping in the Red Sea. According to Radio Pakistan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Tahir Andrabi, stated that such actions threaten regional security, undermine freedom of navigation, challenge the rules-based maritime order, and jeopardize the uninterrupted flow of global commerce.

Andrabi emphasized that threats against commercial shipping and trading with Saudi Arabia are unacceptable and violate established principles of international law. Pakistan is particularly concerned by reports of threats directed at vessels engaged in lawful commercial trade with the Kingdom. He reaffirmed that any hostile act against Pakistani-flagged vessels or maritime interests would be regarded as a grave threat to Pakistan’s national security and sovereign interests.

The spokesperson stated that Pakistan reserves its right to take all necessary measures, including the lawful use of force, in self-defense to protect its maritime assets and national interests, in line with the United Nations Charter and international law. Pakistan expressed deep concern over attempts to involve Saudi Arabia in the Middle Eastern conflict and reiterated its support for the Kingdom’s security, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and prosperity.

While committed to dialogue, diplomacy, and regional de-escalation, Pakistan called on all parties to respect international law and ensure the safety and security of international maritime shipping.