Pakistan has called for an immediate end to Houthi attacks and other provocative activities in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait, warning that continued escalation could have serious consequences for maritime security and regional stability.
The call came during a UN Security Council meeting focused on the deteriorating security situation around the strategic waterway. The meeting followed reports of intensified fighting along Yemen’s western coast and Houthi advances towards the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
The United Nations has described the situation around the strait as increasingly volatile and called for the restoration of freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab in accordance with international law.
Pakistan said attacks on commercial vessels were undermining maritime security and threatening peace, stability and economic development in the region. It also reaffirmed its support for Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and security.
The Security Council meeting also highlighted concerns over the impact of the escalation on Yemen, regional security, international trade and global supply chains. Continued attacks and threats to merchant shipping have raised concerns over the safety of vital maritime routes.
Concerns were also raised over the wider impact of disruptions at major maritime chokepoints, including the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab. Pakistan called for de-escalation, protection of ships and crew members, and the restoration of normal maritime passage.
Pakistan also stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in addressing regional tensions and said it would continue supporting efforts aimed at achieving negotiated settlements and restoring maritime peace and security.
