Pakistan has conveyed to Iran that Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia are considered strikes on Pakistan itself, according to a Pakistani official.The country's top civil and military leaders have emphasized that such attacks are a 'red line' for Islamabad.

This stance comes amid heightened tensions following recent missile strikes by the Houthis on Saudi Arabia, which have pushed Pakistan's frustration to new levels.Pakistan signed a mutual defense pact with Saudi Arabia last year, committing both nations to treat aggression against either as an attack on both.Pakistani soldiers are deployed near the Saudi border with Yemen, increasing direct exposure to cross-border conflict.Concerns also exist about the potential disruption of the Red Sea trade route, crucial for Pakistan's economy.While Pakistan's leaders are currently balancing appeasement efforts, analysts warn that this could shift if the Houthis escalate attacks.The defense deal with Saudi Arabia reflects growing Gulf Arab states' concerns about U.S.reliability as a security guarantor, though Pakistan remains dependent on Middle Eastern oil and gas.Recent tensions around the Strait of Hormuz have disrupted supply routes, prompting emergency measures to prevent fuel shortages.Mediating between the U.S.and Iran is also tied to reopening these supply routes, with officials stressing their commitment to the mediation despite frustrations.