Pakistan Urges Houthis to Halt Activities, Stresses Dialogue Over Coercive Measures

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has expressed serious concern over the situation in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, one of the world’s key maritime chokepoints, and called for dialogue and diplomacy to address regional tensions.

Foreign Office Spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan, speaking at his weekly press briefing in Islamabad on Thursday, said the developments in Bab al-Mandab were a matter of serious concern for Pakistan.

The spokesperson urged Yemen’s Houthis to halt their activities and stressed the importance of restoring peace and stability across the region.

He said Pakistan’s discussions with relevant stakeholders were focused on achieving peace and stability through dialogue and diplomacy rather than coercive measures.

“The situation in Bab al-Mandab is a matter of serious concern,” Sajjad Haider Khan said, while reiterating Pakistan’s preference for diplomatic engagement to address regional disputes.

The Bab al-Mandab Strait, meaning “Gate of Tears,” connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and is a vital route for international maritime trade.

The latest developments have raised concerns over freedom of navigation and maritime security in the region, with Pakistan calling for peaceful efforts to prevent further escalation.