Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued one of its strongest warnings yet, stating that any hostile act by Iran‑backed Houthi forces against Pakistani‑flagged vessels or ships trading with Saudi Arabia will be treated as a grave threat to Pakistan’s national security. The statement comes after the Houthis announced a maritime embargo on Saudi Arabia, threatening commercial shipping through the Bab el‑Mandeb Strait, a critical gateway to the Red Sea.
Islamabad emphasized that it reserves the right to take all necessary measures — including the lawful use of force — to protect its maritime interests, citing international law and the UN Charter. The warning follows reports that Houthi officials have told shipping companies to avoid routes leading to Saudi ports, escalating tensions in a region already destabilized by the wider U.S.–Iran conflict.
Pakistan also condemned attempts to “drag Saudi Arabia into the conflict”, reaffirming its defense pact and “unwavering support” for the kingdom’s security. The Foreign Office stressed that threats to commercial shipping undermine freedom of navigation and jeopardize global trade.