UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan has reaffirmed its firm commitment to Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and security amid continuing Houthi attacks, assuring the kingdom of its full solidarity at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, made the statement during the council’s monthly briefing on Yemen on Friday. He condemned attacks on Saudi territory and called for an immediate halt to hostilities.
The ambassador said Pakistan’s commitment to Saudi Arabia remained resolute under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement and recent decisions of its Strategic Political and Defence Committee. He referred to a statement by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, reaffirming Islamabad’s support for the kingdom.
Ahmad said Pakistan recognised Saudi Arabia’s legitimate right to defend its people, cities and critical infrastructure against attacks. He also expressed solidarity with the Saudi leadership and people as tensions continued to threaten regional security.
The Pakistani envoy condemned Houthi attacks targeting infrastructure in the Makkah Governorate and the Taibah power distribution station in Madinah. He also recalled the attacks on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and Abha International Airport, which resulted in civilian deaths and injuries.
He urged the Houthi movement to stop its attacks immediately. Ahmad also stressed that the security and sanctity of Islam’s two holiest mosques must be respected under all circumstances.
Alongside its support for Saudi Arabia, Pakistan reiterated its commitment to Yemen’s sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity. It also reaffirmed support for the country’s internationally recognised government and called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The ambassador expressed concern over the intensifying Houthi offensive along Yemen’s western coast and around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. He warned that the escalation posed serious challenges to maritime security and international shipping.
Ahmad called on the Houthis to end attacks on commercial vessels and urged all parties to respect freedom of navigation in accordance with international law. The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a strategically important maritime passage connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the wider Indian Ocean.
Pakistan also backed the diplomatic efforts of UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg to prevent further escalation and facilitate a cessation of hostilities. Ahmad called for an inclusive political process led and owned by Yemenis under United Nations auspices.
The envoy highlighted the worsening humanitarian situation in Yemen, where renewed fighting continues to threaten civilians and essential services. He referred to the offensive around Taiz and an attack by Houthi elements on Aden airport as further evidence of the dangers facing civilian populations and infrastructure.
He urged all parties to ensure safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access. He also called for adequate funding for relief operations and the protection of civilian facilities.
Ahmad stressed that food, fuel and other essential commercial supplies must be allowed to reach people in need. He warned that restrictions on humanitarian assistance could deepen the suffering of communities already affected by years of conflict.
Pakistan further called for the immediate, unconditional and safe release of UN personnel, humanitarian workers and diplomatic staff held in detention.
Addressing the Security Council, the ambassador urged its members to act collectively to stop Houthi attacks, protect regional security and ease the humanitarian crisis. He said coordinated international efforts were necessary to restore a credible path towards a political settlement.
Pakistan, he added, would continue supporting initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace in Yemen and promoting stability across the region.
Islamabad’s statement comes amid heightened regional tensions and growing concerns about attacks on critical infrastructure and maritime routes. Pakistan has called for an end to hostilities while maintaining its support for Saudi Arabia’s security and a peaceful political solution to Yemen’s conflict.
