Pakistan Pushes Dialogue Over Coercion
On September 18, 2026, Pakistan’s Foreign Office issued a statement expressing deep concern over the escalating conflict in the Bab al‑Mandab Strait. Islamabad highlighted the strategic importance of the chokepoint, which connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and serves as a critical artery for global maritime trade and energy supplies. The spokesperson emphasized that the situation is “exceptionally serious” and called for a diplomatic resolution rather than coercive measures.
The conflict has intensified as Yemen’s Houthi movement has gained ground along the Red Sea coast, launching missile and drone attacks against Saudi territory. In response, Riyadh has increased airstrikes targeting Houthi positions. The heightened hostilities threaten regional stability and pose risks to commercial shipping lanes that pass through the Bab al‑Mandab, prompting neighboring states to seek a peaceful settlement.
Pakistan’s stance is shaped by its recent security commitments to Saudi Arabia, notably the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) signed in September 2025 and the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement involving Turkey, signed in August 2026. Under the SMDA, an attack on either party is treated as an attack on both, while the Makkah accord formalizes collective defence and aims to strengthen deterrence. Islamabad reiterated its commitment to both agreements while urging restraint.
Foreign Office spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan declined to disclose operational details regarding force deployments, citing confidentiality. He confirmed that Pakistani troops and defence assets are already stationed in Saudi Arabia under the bilateral framework, and that some deployments have occurred under the SMDA. The spokesperson emphasized that operational decisions will be made at the highest levels and remain undisclosed until necessary.
The statement also addressed Afghanistan, stressing the need for verifiable assurances that its territory will not be used to facilitate terrorism against Pakistan. Islamabad welcomed past mediation efforts by China, Turkey, and Qatar but noted that Afghanistan’s cooperation has been limited. The spokesperson suggested that a swift resolution of security concerns could pave the way for normalized relations between the two countries.
