Pakistan on Wednesday strongly condemned the continued threats issued by Yemen’s Houthi militia against Saudi Arabia and commercial shipping in the Red Sea, warning that such actions endanger regional security and global trade.

In a statement, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said the Houthi threats undermine freedom of navigation, challenge the rules-based maritime order and jeopardise the uninterrupted flow of international commerce.

He said threats targeting commercial vessels and trade linked to Saudi Arabia were unacceptable and violated established principles of international law.

Pakistan expressed particular concern over reports that ships engaged in lawful commercial trade with Saudi Arabia had been threatened.

The spokesperson reaffirmed that any hostile act against Pakistani-flagged vessels or Pakistan’s maritime interests would be considered a serious threat to the country’s national security and sovereignty.

He said Pakistan reserved the right, in accordance with the United Nations Charter and international law, to take all necessary measures, including the lawful use of force in self-defence, to safeguard its maritime assets and national interests.

Andrabi also voiced concern over attempts to draw Saudi Arabia further into the ongoing Middle East conflict, reiterating Pakistan’s unwavering support for the kingdom’s security, sovereignty, territorial integrity and prosperity.

While reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to dialogue, diplomacy and regional de-escalation, he urged all parties to respect international law and ensure the safety and security of international maritime shipping.