"Pakistan strongly condemns the nefarious designs of Houthi militia to weaponize Bab-Al-Mandab by launching attacks on merchant shipping and innocent seafarers navigating the Strait. These attacks seriously undermine maritime security and threaten peace and development of regional countries, especially the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia which is facing blatant and unprovoked aggression by the Houthis. Pakistan reaffirms its unwavering support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, security and prosperity of the Kingdom and stands in complete solidarity with its leadership, government, and our brothers and sisters of Saudi Arabia. We call upon Houthi militia for immediate cessation of these provocative acts which could have dire consequences for maritime security, and regional peace and stability.Statement by Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN, during the Security Council Arria Formula Meeting on Safe Seas, Shared Security: Protecting Freedom of Navigation in an Evolving Security EnvironmentComplete Statement by Pakistan below"
Pakistan has recently voiced strong condemnation of the Houthi militia's attempts to weaponize Bab-Al-Mandab, a critical maritime route essential for international trade and commerce. These assaults on merchant vessels and innocent seafarers navigating the Strait pose serious threats to maritime security and the broader peace and development of regional nations, particularly the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).
In his statement during the UN Security Council Arria Formula Meeting on Safe Seas, Pakistan's Ambassador to the UN, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, underscored the destabilizing effects of such hostile actions on regional stability. The Houthis' aggressive tactics threaten the very foundations of maritime security that many rely upon for safe navigation. These provocations are especially alarming as they come at a time when KSA is already confronting unprovoked aggression from Houthi factions.
Pakistan has reaffirmed its steadfast support for the Kingdoms sovereignty and territorial integrity. This support stems from deep-rooted historical ties and highlights Pakistan's commitment to regional peace and cooperative security. By positioning itself as a reliable ally, Pakistan aims to strengthen diplomatic and strategic relations with KSA while advocating for a return to peace.
The international community has responded with concern to the escalating tensions in the region. Many nations recognize the strategic importance of the Bab-Al-Mandab Strait, given its role as a transit point for maritime trade. Countries around the globe emphasize the need for collective action to ensure navigational freedom and tackle any threats that jeopardize it.
Calls for dialogue and de-escalation have been echoed by various member states at the UN. They emphasize the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict and fostering long-term solutions that can pave the way for regional stability. Pakistans principled stand reaffirms its readiness to collaborate with other states to uphold maritime safety and security.
As tensions continue to rise, it is essential for all stakeholders, including the Houthi militia, to recognize the detrimental impact of their actions on regional stability. Pakistan advocates for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urges all parties to engage in constructive dialogue, focusing on mutual understanding and cooperation.
Moving forward, Pakistan aims to enhance its diplomatic efforts in international forums, working alongside Saudi Arabia and other allies to combat threats to maritime security effectively. The need of the hour is for unity against aggression and a collective commitment to fostering peace and security in the region.
