Pakistan Warns Iran to Rein in Houthis

Pakistan has issued a strong warning to Iran to rein in Yemen’s Houthi group amid a series of attacks in Saudi Arabia. Islamabad also warned that a joint security arrangement involving Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey could be activated if the attacks spread further.

According to Reuters, Houthi attacks on Tuesday targeted an airbase in Khamis Mushait and oil infrastructure in nearby Saudi cities, injuring 73 people. The Houthis later claimed that Saudi warplanes carried out 54 strikes in Yemen within 12 hours.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said any wider attack on Saudi Arabia could trigger the three-country defence agreement. However, Pakistan’s military role would remain limited to defending Saudi territory, with no troops being sent into Yemen.

A senior regional diplomat said Pakistan had urged Iran to use its influence to stop the Houthi attacks. An Iranian official confirmed receiving the message but said Tehran does not control the Houthis.

Two Iranian sources, however, claimed that Iran had encouraged the Houthis to attack Saudi Arabia and promised additional funds and weapons. Reuters said the escalating conflict could create a new security crisis in the Middle East and bring Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey closer together.