Muhammad Irfanullah | July 23, 2026
Pakistan has issued a strong warning over threats and attacks against commercial vessels in the Red Sea, stating that any hostile action against Pakistani-flagged ships would be considered a direct threat to the country’s national security.
Speaking during a weekly media briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi said Pakistan is closely monitoring reports of threats by Yemen’s Houthi movement (Ansar Allah) against commercial shipping, including vessels linked to Saudi Arabia.
He said Pakistan strongly condemns attacks and threats targeting commercial ships, warning that such actions endanger regional stability and pose serious risks to global trade.
Pakistan Condemns Attacks on Commercial Shipping
Andrabi emphasized that the safe movement of commercial vessels through international sea lanes is essential for the global economy. He said attacks on merchant ships are unacceptable and undermine international maritime security.
Pakistan, he added, remains committed to the protection of freedom of navigation and the security of global trade routes.
Threats Against Saudi Trade Deemed Unacceptable
The Foreign Office spokesperson described threats against vessels engaged in legitimate trade with Saudi Arabia as unacceptable.
He noted that Saudi Arabia is an important partner and close ally of Pakistan, and any disruption to lawful commercial activities could negatively impact regional economic stability and international commerce.
Attack on Pakistani Ships Would Be Viewed as a Security Threat
Pakistan made its position clear by stating that any attack on a Pakistani-flagged vessel would not be treated as an isolated maritime incident.
According to Andrabi, such an act would be considered a direct threat to Pakistan’s national security and sovereign interests.
He added that any attempt to harm Pakistan’s maritime assets or disrupt its commercial interests at sea would be taken seriously and responded to appropriately.
Right to Self-Defense Reserved
The spokesperson said that under the United Nations Charter and international law, every sovereign state has the right to defend itself.
Pakistan, he said, reserves the right to take all necessary measures, including the use of force if required, to protect its maritime assets, commercial vessels, and national interests in accordance with international law.
Concern Over Rising Regional Tensions
Pakistan also expressed concern over increasing tensions in and around the Red Sea, warning that continued instability could threaten regional security and disrupt international trade.
The Foreign Office urged all parties to exercise restraint, respect international law, and avoid actions that could further escalate tensions or endanger global shipping routes.
Pakistan Reaffirms Commitment to Maritime Security
The statement underscores Pakistan’s determination to safeguard its maritime interests, trade routes, and national sovereignty.
Officials said any aggression against Pakistani-flagged vessels or maritime assets would be dealt with seriously, and the country would take all necessary steps under international law to protect its national interests.
