A warning has been issued to Iran by Pakistan regarding the need to contain the Houthi forces that attacked oil refineries of southern Saudi Arabia. This has aroused fear that there will be the spread of conflict to yet another front.
Sources in Islamabad revealed that Pakistan had warned Iran amid the escalation of Houthi attacks on Saudi targets this week.
Houthi Missile Attacks Increase Regional Concerns
The Houthi militants in Yemen have targeted oil facilities located in the southern regions of Saudi Arabia using their ballistic missiles. The Saudis have reacted with air strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen.
The latest round of hostilities has made things worse in an already tense region which is experiencing tensions due to the activities of the US and Iran in the area, especially around the vital Strait of Hormuz.
Pakistan finds itself in a tough spot due to its close defense ties with Saudi Arabia and at the same time its efforts to maintain diplomatic relations with Iran.
Pakistan Faces Pressure From Its Defense Commitments
Pakistan has had security and defense relations with Saudi Arabia for some time. Saudi Arabia has even signed a defense pact with Pakistan and there has been security cooperation between the two countries along with other nations such as Turkey.
As part of their defense agreement, Pakistan has sent Pakistani air force personnel, fighter jets, and troops to aid Saudi Arabia in the defense of the country.
According to the sources, Pakistan was not supposed to take part directly in the attacks by Saudi Arabia on the Houthi fighters in Yemen. However, their air defense system may activate in case other attacks are directed against Saudi Arabia.
Pakistani stance was described as a defensive role by one of the sources.
Pakistan’s Diplomatic Role With Iran and the United States
Pakistan has also been involved in mediation between Iran and the United States. The country’s stance is getting more complicated as tensions rise in the region amid shipping disturbances.
The Houthi problem is said to have been raised during the recent visit of Pakistan’s military chief General Asim Munir to Tehran.
The warning that Pakistan has extended to Iran indicates the attempts of the country to strike a balance between its strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia and its dialogue with Tehran.
Striking such a balance will get harder with the continuation or escalation of attacks with the involvement of Houthi fighters.
Why the Red Sea Remains Important
However, Houthi operations near the Red Sea also have implications far beyond Saudi Arabia and Yemen. This is due to the fact that this area represents an important shipping lane for goods and energy resources on a global level.
More attacks may add to the security threats for commercial ships and also create some uncertainty regarding regional energy markets.
At the same time, the situation comes amid high tensions related to the Strait of Hormuz, raising fears of the possible consequences from having several flashpoints in the region.
What Could Happen Next?
The primary concern will revolve around whether further attacks by Houthis will take place and what is the response of Saudi Arabia to them.
Pakistan will have the pressure of defending itself without getting involved in any military action. On the other hand, maintaining diplomatic relations with Iran will help in avoiding any further escalation.
A lot will depend on whether or not the parties involved in the current confrontation manage to contain it or whether new attacks are launched involving new nations.
Conclusion
This is indeed a precarious time for the Middle East as the Houthis’ assault on Saudi Arabia is making the ongoing situation more difficult.
Being on good terms both militarily and diplomatically with both countries requires that Pakistan plays a role in stopping any possible escalation.
For now, all that Pakistan is doing seems to be protecting Saudi Arabia from external threats but not participating in offensive action against the other side. However, this may change depending on events to come.
FAQs
The Houthis are an armed political and military movement based in Yemen. They have been involved in Yemen’s prolonged conflict and have carried out attacks against targets in the region, including Saudi Arabia and commercial shipping routes.
Reports indicate that Pakistan is not expected to participate in Saudi air operations against Houthi forces in Yemen. Its defense role is focused on protecting Saudi territory under its bilateral defense commitments.
Continued instability around the Red Sea could affect commercial shipping and increase security concerns for vessels using the region. Prolonged disruption could also contribute to uncertainty in global energy and transportation markets.
