Pakistan has condemned the attack on a commercial vessel and is coordinating with Saudi and Yemeni authorities to assist the victims and investigate the incident.
At least three Pakistani nationals were killed and another was injured after Houthi forces attacked a commercial vessel in the Red Sea, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said Wednesday, raising fresh concerns over the safety of civilian crews navigating one of the world’s most important trade routes.
Dar strongly condemned the attack, saying Pakistan rejects violence against non-combatant commercial shipping. He warned that attacks on civilian vessels threaten innocent lives, undermine freedom of navigation and could disrupt international trade.
The Pakistani government has begun coordinating with Saudi authorities and Yemen’s internationally recognised government to establish further details about the incident.
Dar also directed Pakistan’s embassy in Riyadh to remain in close contact with relevant authorities. The diplomatic mission has been tasked with facilitating the recovery and repatriation of the deceased Pakistanis, while efforts are being made to provide assistance to the injured national.
Pakistan raises concerns over Red Sea security
The latest incident comes amid continuing instability around major maritime routes in the Middle East. Pakistan has previously warned that attacks on commercial shipping could undermine freedom of navigation and create risks for global commerce.
Islamabad has also strengthened coordination with Saudi Arabia over regional security and the safe movement of legitimate commercial shipping through the Red Sea.
The incident comes against a broader backdrop of expanding security cooperation between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye following the signing of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement. Pakistani officials have described the agreement as defensive and aimed at promoting regional peace and stability.
Diplomatic efforts intensify
The attack also comes as Pakistan pursues diplomatic contacts aimed at reducing tensions in the wider Middle East. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has held meetings with Iranian officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, as Islamabad continues discussions on regional security developments.
The continuing threats to maritime traffic have implications beyond the region. Prolonged disruption in the Red Sea or other strategic waterways could increase shipping costs, place pressure on global supply chains and affect energy markets.
For Pakistan, the deaths have also highlighted the risks faced by its nationals working aboard international commercial vessels as regional tensions continue to threaten vital shipping corridors.
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