Pakistan warns Iran to rein in Houthis as Riyadh strikes back

Pakistan has delivered a warning from Saudi Arabia to Iran, urging Tehran to control its Houthi allies in Yemen following increased attacks on the kingdom. This coordinated effort aims to prevent a broader regional crisis, as Houthi forces recently struck an airbase and oil infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, injuring 73 people. Saudi warplanes retaliated with 54 airstrikes across Yemen. Pakistan's intervention is significant due to its defense pact with Saudi Arabia and Turkey, with Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif stating, "An aggression on one country will be considered an aggression on all three countries." While Iran denies controlling the Houthis, two Iranian sources indicated Tehran had encouraged and funded recent Houthi attacks. Pakistan is seeking a diplomatic solution to de-escalate the conflict, with its military role confined to defending Saudi territory if necessary.