PM Shehbaz condemns Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has strongly condemned recent Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, warning

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has strongly condemned recent Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, warning that strikes on civilian and economic infrastructure could further threaten regional stability and disrupt global energy supplies.

The prime minister made the remarks during a telephone conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Sunday. The two leaders discussed the deteriorating security situation in the region and exchanged views on efforts to prevent further escalation.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Shehbaz Sharif expressed Pakistan’s full solidarity with the Saudi leadership and people, stressing that attacks on civilian and economic facilities were a serious threat to peace and security.

The prime minister said Pakistan would continue working for de-escalation and peace in the region. He said he, Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar would maintain their efforts to help reduce tensions and promote stability.

Shehbaz also praised Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for what he described as wise leadership during the ongoing crisis. He conveyed his regards to Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Kingdom.

The Saudi crown prince, according to the PMO, appreciated Pakistan’s consistent support for Saudi Arabia and its efforts to promote peace and stability.

Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact and expressed their desire to meet in person at an early opportunity.

The conversation took place amid a fresh escalation involving the Houthis and Saudi Arabia. Earlier, Houthi attacks had targeted several southern Saudi cities, including Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan and Najran, reportedly leaving dozens of people injured.

Saudi Arabia subsequently carried out airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen’s western Al-Hudaydah province.

Tensions also intensified after Saudi authorities temporarily suspended operations on the East-West oil pipeline following drone attacks. The strategically important pipeline transports crude from Saudi Arabia’s eastern production areas to the Red Sea coast, providing an alternative route for exports that avoids the Strait of Hormuz.

The pipeline, commonly known as Petroline, extends for around 1,200 kilometres from Abqaiq in eastern Saudi Arabia to Yanbu on the Red Sea. It is operated by Saudi Aramco and plays an important role in moving crude to western refineries, storage facilities and export terminals.

The latest developments have raised concerns over the potential impact of the regional conflict on energy markets and international shipping. The Houthis also control areas close to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key maritime passage connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden.