Pakistan backs Saudi security at UN
Pakistan’s permanent representative to the UN reiterated its unwavering support for Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty amid escalating Houthi attacks, calling for an immediate ceasefire and protection of maritime routes.
Key Commitments Delivered at the UNSC
- Reaffirmed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement and pledged “shoulder to shoulder” backing for Saudi security.
- Condemned Houthi strikes on Saudi infrastructure, including the Taibah power station and international airports.
- Urged the Houthis to halt attacks on commercial shipping and uphold freedom of navigation through the Bab el‑Mandeb Strait.
- Demanded safe, unhindered humanitarian access and the release of detained UN personnel.
Historical Ties and Regional Stakes
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have long maintained a strategic partnership rooted in shared religious, economic and security interests. The Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, signed in 2019, formalized military cooperation, while Pakistan’s support for Yemen’s internationally recognised government reflects its broader commitment to regional stability. The current Houthi offensive threatens not only Saudi infrastructure but also the vital maritime corridor that links the Middle East to global trade.
What Comes Next for the Region?
Pakistan’s stance signals a potential shift in diplomatic pressure on the Houthis, encouraging the UN to intensify mediation efforts. Should the Saudi‑Pakistan alliance deepen, it could spur additional Gulf support for a negotiated settlement in Yemen, while safeguarding the Bab el‑Mandeb passage will remain a priority for international shipping. The UN’s call for a Yemeni‑led political process may gain traction as regional actors rally behind a unified front against the insurgency.
