Pakistan and Saudi Arabia agreed to strengthen cooperation for regional peace and maritime security following Houthi attacks on Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman discussed the situation during a telephone conversation.
Shehbaz condemned the attacks on Saudi vessels and described them as a violation of international law. He said such actions threatened freedom of navigation and regional peace. The prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia during the ongoing situation.
Read more: PM Shehbaz reaffirms Pakistan’s support for Saudi Arabia
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, both leaders agreed to maintain close coordination to support regional stability. They also discussed ensuring uninterrupted lawful maritime trade through the Red Sea, Strait of Hormuz and surrounding areas.
The conversation followed claims by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi movement that it carried out missile and drone attacks on two Saudi oil tankers. The vessels identified were Encelia and Layla. Saudi authorities confirmed that the Encelia was hit but did not provide further details.
Held a telephone conversation with my dear brother, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, this morning.
I condemned, in the strongest possible terms, the Houthi militia’s attacks…
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) July 23, 2026
Meanwhile, the attacks have increased concerns over maritime security and global energy supplies. Pakistan’s Foreign Office also condemned Houthi threats against Saudi Arabia and commercial shipping in the Red Sea. It said such actions challenged international maritime rules.
Read more: Pakistan draws red line over Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia
Additionally, the Foreign Office said attacks and threats against commercial vessels involved in lawful trade were unacceptable. Islamabad stressed the importance of protecting freedom of navigation and maintaining stability in international shipping routes.
The latest developments come amid rising tensions in the region after Houthi forces announced a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia said they would continue working together to promote peace, security and economic stability.