Pakistan condemns Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia at UNSC, backs renewal of Yemen sanctions

Pakistan strongly condemned continued Houthi terrorist attacks against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), demanding an immediate and unconditional halt to the assaults while reaffirming its resolute support for Yemen’s sovereignty and stability.

According to an official press release issued by the Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the United Nations, the remarks were delivered on Thursday by Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Syed Haider Shah, following the Security Council’s adoption of Resolution 2837 (2026), which renews targeted sanctions under Resolution 2140 (2014) until November 14, 2027, and extends the mandate of the Panel of Experts supporting the 2140 Committee until December 15, 2027.

How did Pakistan express solidarity with Saudi Arabia at Security Council?

Addressing the grave regional security situation amid repeated cross-border missile and drone attacks against Saudi territory, Ambassador Shah expressed Pakistan's full and unwavering solidarity with the leadership, government, and people of Saudi Arabia, affirming staunch backing for the Kingdom’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, security, and stability.

Consistent with the UN Charter and international law, the Pakistani envoy underscored Saudi Arabia’s legitimate right to defend its territory and safeguard its citizens and residents, calling for an immediate and unconditional cessation of the reprehensible Houthi attacks.

What did Ambassador Shah emphasize regarding Yemen sanctions regime?

As per the Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the UN, Islamabad voted in favor of the Security Council resolution, which was adopted by consensus.

Ambassador Shah commended the constructive efforts of the United Kingdom as penholder throughout the negotiations and stressed that holding accountable individuals and entities threatening Yemen’s peace and security is essential for creating conditions for durable peace.

On the implementation of the sanctions regime, which maintains asset freezes, travel bans, and the standing arms embargo imposed under Resolution 2216, he emphasized that the Panel of Experts must discharge its responsibilities strictly within its mandate, with professionalism, impartiality, and consistency, to strengthen the credibility and effectiveness of the Security Council's institutional framework.

Under the renewed mandate, the Council also requested the expansion of the Panel of Experts to six members, incorporating dedicated maritime security expertise to combat illicit weapons smuggling.

How does Islamabad view path toward a political settlement in Yemen?

Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to Yemen’s independence, unity, and territorial integrity, Ambassador Shah underscored the importance of UN-led efforts to advance an inclusive political process that is Yemeni-owned and Yemeni-led.

He also reiterated Islamabad’s readiness to support all initiatives aimed at restoring peace and security in Yemen and alleviating the immense humanitarian suffering of its people.

The unanimous adoption of Resolution 2837 reflects sustained international concern over Houthi military escalations across the Arabian Peninsula and maritime transit corridors.