Pakistan’s foreign office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi condemned attacks on commercial vessels in the Bab Al-Mandab Strait, calling them a violation of international law and reaffirming Islamabad’s defense partnership with Saudi Arabia (arabnews.pk). The attacks, which have raised concerns over regional security, prompted Pakistan to support a Saudi-led multinational maritime defense alliance aimed at protecting critical shipping routes (arabnews.pk).
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is currently on a three-day visit to Saudi Arabia, where he will meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The visit comes amid heightened Gulf tensions and reflects Islamabad’s efforts to secure economic and defense cooperation with Riyadh (dawn.com). Pakistan’s alignment with Saudi Arabia on maritime security underscores its strategic interests in maintaining stability in the Red Sea region.
The visit also coincides with broader regional dynamics, including concerns over Iran and the role of Gulf states in mediating international conflicts. Retired General Jack Keane has questioned the reliability of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar as mediators in Iran-related talks (foxnews.com). Despite these concerns, Pakistan’s reaffirmation of its defense partnership with Saudi Arabia highlights the country’s growing alignment with regional security priorities.
