Pakistan Reaffirms Right to Defend Maritime Interests Amid Red Sea Security Concerns
Pakistan has warned that it will take all necessary measures, in accordance with international law, to safeguard its maritime assets and national interests in the Red Sea amid rising security concerns over commercial shipping.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the country reserves the right to act in self-defense, including the lawful use of force, if Pakistani-flagged vessels or maritime interests come under threat. The statement emphasized that any hostile action targeting Pakistan’s commercial shipping would be viewed as a serious threat to the country’s sovereignty and national security.
The warning follows recent statements by Yemen’s Houthi movement announcing restrictions on maritime navigation linked to Saudi Arabia. Pakistan expressed particular concern over reported threats to vessels engaged in lawful commercial trade with the Kingdom.
Islamabad strongly condemned continued threats against Saudi Arabia and commercial shipping in the Red Sea, stating that such actions endanger regional stability, disrupt freedom of navigation, and pose risks to global trade routes. The government said attacks or threats against civilian maritime commerce violate established principles of international law and undermine the rules-based international maritime order.
Pakistan also reiterated its firm support for the security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Saudi Arabia, while expressing concern over efforts that could further widen regional conflict.
At the same time, Islamabad reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue, diplomacy, and regional de-escalation, urging all parties to respect international law and ensure the safety of international shipping through one of the world’s most strategically important maritime corridors.
The statement comes as tensions in the Red Sea continue to affect global shipping and international security, prompting renewed calls for restraint and the protection of commercial maritime traffic.
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