ISLAMABAD: Pakistan must sustain its diplomatic efforts with regional allies to facilitate dialogues between the United States and Iran, while also supporting Saudi Arabia’s defense and seeking a peaceful resolution to the Houthi conflict, stated Sardar Masood Khan, the former Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, China, and the United Nations, as well as the former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
According to President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, in a television interview, Ambassador Masood Khan discussed the historical complexities of the Saudi-Houthi confrontation, noting how Yemen’s civil war intensified in 2014-15 and the 2022 ceasefire’s vulnerability. He emphasized that recent hostilities have heightened regional instability and exacerbated Yemen’s humanitarian crisis.
Ambassador Khan pointed out the Houthis’ enhanced military capabilities and their strategic actions supporting Iran and pressuring Saudi Arabia. He clarified that despite Iran’s influence, the Houthis maintain independent decision-making.
He referenced the Makkah Defence Agreement, underlining Pakistan’s commitment to Saudi Arabia’s defense alongside Türkiye. This agreement, he explained, aims at collective deterrence, potentially involving military and other assistance based on each country’s decisions.
Ambassador Khan expressed optimism for a negotiated settlement, citing past diplomatic engagements, while cautioning that unresolved US-Iran tensions could continue to destabilize the region. He warned against any renewed US-Israeli military action against Iran, which could escalate into a broader conflict.
He also highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic efforts with regional partners like Türkiye, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, stressing the importance of these engagements in preventing further escalation.
In conclusion, Ambassador Khan underscored the necessity of dialogue, coordinated diplomacy, and collective deterrence to safeguard regional security and foster conditions conducive to renewed negotiations between Washington and Tehran.