Pakistan Relays Saudi Warning to Iran Over Houthi Attacks
Pakistan delivered a Saudi warning to Iran demanding an end to Houthi attacks, as Riyadh, Islamabad, and Turkey coordinate a mutual defense response against regional escalation.
Pakistan transmitted a warning from Saudi Arabia to Iran demanding an end to Houthi attacks on the kingdom, according to Reuters. The diplomatic effort aims to prevent the Yemen-Saudi crisis from spiraling out of control.
Pakistan conveyed a direct message to Tehran warning that continued strikes inside Saudi Arabia risk triggering a broader regional security crisis. Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif stated that attacks on Saudi territory could activate a mutual defense pact between Pakistan, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia.
Tehran's Response and Regional Dynamics
A senior Iranian official confirmed receipt of the message but claimed Tehran does not control the Houthis. However, two Iranian sources revealed that Tehran actually instructed the Houthis to conduct the attacks last week, promising additional funds and weaponry while deploying Revolutionary Guard commanders to Yemen for coordination.
A regional diplomat noted that Islamabad seeks to curb the Houthis before Riyadh feels compelled to demand a more active military role from Pakistan. A Pakistani source added that Saudi officials met in Riyadh with military leaders from Pakistan and Turkey to coordinate their response. The three nations agreed that their forces would not enter Yemen and that any retaliation would originate from Saudi territory.
Last month, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey signed a tripartite defense agreement in Mecca. The pact stipulates that an armed attack against any of the three signatory states will be considered an attack against all of them, reinforcing joint deterrence and security cooperation.
