Special Correspondent
UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan strongly condemned the ballistic missile attacks launched by Yemen’s Houthi movement against Saudi Arabia during an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, while calling for diplomacy and dialogue to ease rising tensions across the Middle East.
Addressing the Council, Pakistan’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Usman Jadoon, reaffirmed Islamabad’s unwavering support for the security, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Saudi Arabia.
He also reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to Yemen’s sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity in accordance with the UN Charter and international law.
Ambassador Jadoon urged the international community to encourage all parties to exercise restraint and pursue dialogue and diplomacy to prevent further escalation in Yemen and the wider region.
He stressed that a lasting peace in Yemen could only be achieved through an inclusive, Yemeni-led political process facilitated by the United Nations.
Referring to the recent prisoner exchange agreement, the Pakistani envoy said it demonstrated that meaningful progress remains possible through negotiations even under difficult circumstances.
He called on all parties to continue constructive talks aimed at achieving a nationwide ceasefire and a comprehensive political settlement.
Highlighting the humanitarian situation in Yemen, Jadoon said years of conflict, displacement, economic hardship and food insecurity had severely affected civilians, warning that any further escalation would only deepen their suffering.
Pakistan also expressed concern over the reported arbitrary detention of United Nations personnel, humanitarian workers and diplomatic staff by the Houthis, calling for their immediate and unconditional release.
The Pakistani envoy emphasized that the privileges and immunities of UN personnel, facilities and assets must be fully respected and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for all sincere diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring peace, stability and de-escalation in the region.
