PM Shehbaz Condemns Houthi Red Sea Attacks in Call with Saudi Crown Prince

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has strongly condemned the Houthi attacks on Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, emphasizing the unacceptable nature of such actions that threaten international law and regional stability. The condemnation came during a telephone conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

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Such actions are unacceptable, violate international law, threaten freedom of navigation and undermine regional peace and security.

During the call, Prime Minister Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering solidarity with Saudi Arabia. He conveyed that both he, the Chief of Defence Forces, and the nation stand firmly with the Saudi leadership and its people during this critical time. The leaders agreed to enhance close cooperation to maintain regional peace, security, stability, and ensure the uninterrupted flow of lawful maritime commerce through vital waterways like the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz.

The conversation highlighted shared concerns over the escalating hostilities in the Middle East. The Houthi announcement of a military operation targeting two Saudi Arabian oil tankers, with one confirmed ablaze, has heightened tensions. These actions violate international law, threaten freedom of navigation, and undermine regional peace and security, according to PM Sharif.

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we stand firmly and resolutely with the Saudi leadership and the brotherly people of the kingdom at this critical time.

This exchange follows Pakistan's recent strong warning to the Houthis regarding threats against Saudi Arabia and commercial shipping. Pakistan explicitly stated its right to take necessary self-defense measures if its maritime interests were targeted. The Bab al-Mandeb strait, a critical chokepoint connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, is vital for Pakistan's trade and energy supplies, making any disruption a significant concern.

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continue working very closely to maintain regional peace, security, stability, and the uninterrupted flow of lawful maritime commerce through the Red Sea as well as the Strait of Hormuz and the wider region.