Pakistan Stands with Saudi Arabia as Red Sea Tensions Escalat
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Saudi Arabia during a telephone conversation with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman.
The call came after reported attacks on Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, an incident that has raised concerns over maritime security and the safety of international shipping routes.
Prime Minister Shehbaz strongly condemned the attacks, describing them as a clear violation of international law. He emphasized that such actions threaten global maritime trade and the free movement of commercial vessels through one of the world’s most strategically important waterways.
The premier stated that Pakistan stands firmly with Saudi Arabia during this challenging period. He added that Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and the people of Pakistan remain united in expressing complete solidarity with the Kingdom.
Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to supporting regional peace and stability, saying Islamabad will continue working with Saudi Arabia and the international community to ensure safe, secure, and uninterrupted lawful maritime trade in the Red Sea, the Strait of Hormuz, and surrounding waters.
The Prime Minister also conveyed his best wishes for Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz, reaffirming the deep-rooted brotherly ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
During the conversation, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman appreciated Pakistan’s consistent support and the close relationship shared by the two countries.
The latest diplomatic engagement follows claims by Yemen’s Houthi movement that it targeted two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, alleging the vessels had violated a maritime blockade imposed by the group on Saudi-linked ports. The attacks have intensified concerns about the security of critical international shipping lanes and their impact on global energy supplies.
Pakistan has repeatedly emphasized the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation and ensuring the protection of lawful maritime commerce, calling for international cooperation to safeguard regional stability.