ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Pakistan on Wednesday ‘unequivocally’ condemned the continued threats issued by Yemen’s Houthis against Saudi Arabia and commercial shipping in the Red Sea.
In a statement, the Foreign Office said such actions threaten “regional security, undermine freedom of navigation, challenge the rules-based maritime order and jeopardise the uninterrupted flow of global commerce.”
The FO further added that threats against commercial shipping and trade with Saudi Arabia are unacceptable and violate established principles of international law.
“Pakistan is particularly concerned by reports of threats directed against vessels engaged in lawful commercial trade with the Kingdom,” it stated.
The Foreign Office reaffirmed that any hostile act against Pakistani-flagged vessels or Pakistani maritime interests will be regarded as a grave threat to Pakistan’s national security and sovereign interests.
“Consistent with the Charter of the United Nations and international law, Pakistan reserves its right to take all necessary measures, including lawful use of force, in the exercise of self-defence to protect its maritime assets and national interests,” the statement added.
Pakistan also said it was “deeply concerned over attempts to drag” Saudi Arabia into the Middle East conflict, as fighting continues between the United States and Iran, which in turn has targeted American military sites in some Gulf countries.
Islamabad reiterated its “unwavering support for the security, sovereignty, territorial integrity and prosperity of the brotherly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia”.
“While remaining steadfast in its commitment to dialogue, diplomacy and regional de-escalation, Pakistan calls upon all parties to respect international law and ensure the safety and security of international maritime shipping,” the FO statement affirmed.
The statement came amid escalating tensions after the Houthis declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia and threatened to target commercial shipping.
