UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan has strongly condemned Houthi attacks on civilian and economic targets in Saudi Arabia, calling for immediate de-escalation and the restoration of a credible political process to resolve the conflict in Yemen.
Addressing an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council on Yemen on September 10, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, termed the attacks on Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan and Najran “reprehensible” and a “flagrant violation” of Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He said the attacks undermined efforts to achieve a peaceful and lasting resolution to the conflict in Yemen.
Pakistan reiterated its unwavering support for Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, security and prosperity, expressing solidarity with its leadership, government and people.
Ambassador Ahmad said Islamabad fully supported Saudi Arabia’s legitimate right under the UN Charter and international law to take necessary measures to defend its territory, protect its citizens and residents, and safeguard its national assets.
He described the situation in Yemen as having entered a “deeply alarming and dangerous phase”, citing intensified fighting, continued Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea, attacks on Saudi civilian and economic targets and the worsening humanitarian crisis.
The Pakistani envoy warned that the developments could have far-reaching consequences for Yemen and the wider region.
He stressed that preventing further escalation and preserving diplomatic space should be an urgent priority, recalling that relative calm in Yemen since 2022 had resulted from sustained diplomatic efforts.
Pakistan called for an inclusive, Yemeni-led and Yemeni-owned political process under UN auspices and commended UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg for his continued engagement with the parties and regional stakeholders.
Ambassador Ahmad also urged sustained international attention to Yemen’s humanitarian crisis, including adequate funding for relief operations and safe access for humanitarian personnel.
Pakistan condemned the continued arbitrary detention of UN, humanitarian and diplomatic personnel by the Houthis and demanded their immediate, unconditional and safe release.
“Pakistan will continue to support all sincere efforts aimed at de-escalation, dialogue and a comprehensive political settlement,” Ambassador Ahmad said, stressing that these efforts were essential for lasting peace and stability in Yemen and the wider region.
