Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and security, condemning Houthi attacks on the kingdom and calling for an immediate halt to hostilities.
Addressing the United Nations Security Council’s (UNSC) monthly briefing on Yemen on Friday evening, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, invoked the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement and recent decisions of its Strategic Political and Defence Committee.
“In line with the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, and recent decisions taken by its Strategic Political and Defence Committee, our commitment to the Kingdom’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and security is resolute,” Ambassador Ahmad said, referring to a statement issued by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif a day earlier.
He reiterated Pakistan’s full support for Saudi Arabia’s legitimate right to defend its people and protect its cities and critical infrastructure.
The Pakistani envoy condemned Houthi attacks targeting infrastructure in the Makkah Governorate and the Taibah power distribution station in Madinah. He also recalled Pakistan’s condemnation of attacks on King Khalid International Airport and Abha International Airport, which resulted in civilian casualties and injuries.
“The Houthi militia must immediately cease these attacks,” he said, reaffirming Pakistan’s solidarity with the Saudi leadership and people.
The ambassador also reiterated the importance of protecting Islam’s holiest sites, citing the prime minister’s statement that the security and sanctity of the Two Holy Mosques must be respected at all times.
Beyond its support for Saudi Arabia, Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to Yemen’s sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity, as well as its internationally recognised government.
Ambassador Ahmad warned that the intensifying Houthi offensive along Yemen’s western coast and around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait highlighted the urgent need to protect maritime security.
He called on the Houthis to stop attacks on commercial shipping and urged all parties to uphold freedom of navigation in accordance with international law.
The envoy also expressed support for UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg’s efforts to contain the escalation, maintain communication between the parties and facilitate a cessation of hostilities.
He stressed the need for an inclusive political process led and owned by Yemenis under UN auspices to achieve a sustainable settlement.
Addressing the deteriorating humanitarian situation, Ambassador Ahmad said renewed fighting, including the offensive around Taiz and an attack by Houthi elements on Aden airport, had increased risks to civilians and essential infrastructure.
He called for safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access, adequate funding for relief operations and the protection of civilian infrastructure. He emphasised that food, fuel and other essential commercial supplies must reach all those in need.
Pakistan also reiterated its demand for the immediate, unconditional and safe release of detained UN personnel, humanitarian workers and diplomatic staff.
“The council must act with unity and purpose to halt Houthi attacks, safeguard regional security, alleviate suffering and restore a credible path towards a political settlement,” Ambassador Ahmad said.
He added that Pakistan would continue supporting efforts to achieve a peaceful, stable and united Yemen and promote lasting peace and stability across the region.
