Pakistan firmly condemned the recent Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia and cautioned that the conflict in Yemen, particularly around the Bab al-Mandab maritime corridor, has reached an extremely perilous stage. This statement was made during an emergency session of the UN Security Council focused on the escalating crisis in Yemen.

Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, highlighted that the Council’s decision to convene again within a week underscores the urgency and seriousness of the rapidly worsening situation. He emphasized that the ongoing Houthi military escalation inside Yemen, continued assaults on Saudi Arabia, and recent developments along Yemen’s Red Sea coast have collectively pushed the conflict into a highly dangerous phase.

In a significant development, Ahmad expressed Pakistan’s strongest condemnation of all Houthi attacks against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He noted that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif had conveyed Pakistan’s firm stance during a recent discussion with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reiterating that such attacks pose a serious threat to regional peace and stability.

These hostilities, Ahmad warned, carry grave implications for the global economy and energy security. Pakistan pledged to persist with high-level efforts aimed at reducing tensions and promoting peace and stability throughout the region.

Furthermore, Pakistan reaffirmed its unwavering support for Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, security, and prosperity. Ahmad stressed that Pakistan stands in full solidarity with the Saudi leadership, government, and people. He underscored that, consistent with the UN Charter and international law, Pakistan fully backs Saudi Arabia’s legitimate right to defend its territory, protect its citizens, and secure its national assets against any threats.

Meanwhile, Ahmad raised serious concerns about the expansion of Houthi attacks near the Bab al-Mandab strait, describing it as a vital maritime route. He warned that such escalations represent a significant threat to freedom of navigation and the uninterrupted flow of international maritime trade. Any attempts to disrupt or militarize this crucial waterway would have far-reaching consequences for global commerce, supply chains, and energy security.

The Pakistani envoy also lamented that the relative calm in Yemen since 2022 has unfortunately broken down. He cautioned that further escalation risks reigniting full-scale conflict and dragging Yemen deeper into broader regional hostilities, a scenario that must be avoided at all costs.

Highlighting the worsening humanitarian crisis in Yemen, Ahmad called for urgent diplomatic action proportional to the gravity of the situation. Pakistan strongly supports restarting an inclusive, Yemeni-led political process under UN guidance and appreciates the ongoing efforts of the UN Special Envoy.

In conclusion, Ahmad reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to supporting all genuine diplomatic initiatives aimed at de-escalation, dialogue, and a comprehensive political resolution that could bring lasting peace and stability to Yemen and the wider region.