Pakistan Backs Saudi Self-Defence and Calls for Yemen Talks

UNITED NATIONS, September 11, 2026: Pakistan has condemned Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed its support for the kingdom's sovereignty and right to defend its territory, while urging de-escalation and a renewed political process for Yemen.

Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, set out the position during an emergency UN Security Council meeting on Yemen, according to Radio Pakistan.

Ahmad voiced concern over attacks on civilian and economic targets in Saudi Arabia, threats to commercial shipping in the Red Sea and Yemen's worsening humanitarian situation. He said Pakistan stood in solidarity with Saudi leaders and the Saudi people.

Red Sea security concerns

Pakistan also warned that Houthi activity around the Bab al-Mandab Strait could have consequences far beyond the immediate conflict. The waterway connects the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden and is a major route for international trade.

Threats to commercial vessels can disrupt supply chains, increase shipping costs and place crews at risk. Islamabad called for freedom of navigation and maritime security to be protected in accordance with international law.

At the same time, Pakistan argued that military confrontation cannot deliver a durable settlement in Yemen. It called for restraint, dialogue and an inclusive political process capable of addressing the causes of the conflict.

The statement preceded Saudi Arabia's September 16 announcement that its air defences had intercepted a drone south of Makkah before it entered restricted airspace around the holy city. Saudi authorities blamed the Houthis, while the group denied targeting Makkah.

Novexa is treating those competing claims as disputed attribution. Pakistan's earlier UN statement, however, clearly condemned Houthi attacks reported against Saudi territory and supported lawful defensive measures.

Security support alongside diplomacy

Pakistan's position combines two messages: support for Saudi sovereignty and security, and a warning that continued escalation will deepen Yemen's humanitarian crisis and regional instability.

That balance reflects Islamabad's close relationship with Riyadh as well as its stated preference for negotiated settlements to regional conflicts. The government has repeatedly emphasized the importance of protecting civilian populations, economic infrastructure and international shipping while keeping a political pathway open.

The Security Council discussion did not produce an immediate settlement. Pakistan said credible diplomacy and sustained international engagement remained essential if Yemen was to move toward a lasting ceasefire and political resolution.