Pakistan fears being drawn into US-Iran conflict after Houthi attack on Saudi Arabia
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Pakistan expressed concern on Thursday about being drawn into a conflict between the United States and Iran after Houthi rebels attacked Saudi Arabia. The attack, which targeted Saudi oil facilities, heightened tensions in the region. Pakistani officials called for restraint from all parties.
The Attack
Yemen's Houthi rebels launched a drone and missile attack on Saudi Aramco facilities in Abqaiq and Khurais on Saturday, causing a temporary disruption in oil production. The attack, claimed by the Houthis, was the largest on Saudi oil infrastructure since 2019. Saudi Arabia said it intercepted several drones and missiles, but some struck their targets.
Regional Tensions
The attack comes amid heightened US-Iran tensions following the US killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani in January. The Houthis are widely believed to be backed by Iran, though Tehran denies direct involvement. The US has blamed Iran for the attack, further escalating the standoff.
Pakistan's Position
Pakistan, a key ally of Saudi Arabia, has sought to avoid taking sides in the US-Iran conflict. Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said Pakistan is 'extremely worried' about the situation and urged de-escalation. Pakistan has offered to mediate between Riyadh and Tehran, but no breakthrough has been reported.
What's Next
Pakistan is expected to send a delegation to Saudi Arabia and Iran in the coming days to discuss the crisis. It remains unclear whether Islamabad's mediation efforts will gain traction given the deep mistrust between the parties.
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Pakistan fears being drawn into US-Iran conflict after Houthi attack on Saudi Arabia
