The attack took place on August 11 in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a strategically important maritime route connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden. The vessel, Tihamah, came under attack, resulting in several casualties among its crew.
According to Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, six injured Pakistani sailors were provided medical treatment in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, before being brought back to Pakistan. The remains of two Pakistani sailors who lost their lives in the attack were also repatriated.
The incident has raised renewed concerns over the safety of commercial shipping and seafarers operating in the Red Sea region. The Bab al-Mandab Strait is one of the world’s major maritime routes, and attacks in the area have disrupted international shipping and increased risks for crews.
Dar condemned the attack and emphasized the importance of protecting the lives of seafarers and ensuring freedom of navigation in international waters.
The Pakistani government has been working with Saudi authorities and other relevant agencies to assist the affected sailors and their families. The repatriation of the injured sailors and victims’ remains is expected to provide some relief to their families following the deadly incident.
The attack also highlights the continuing security challenges faced by commercial vessels operating around the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait, where tensions have remained high amid the wider regional conflict.
Pakistan has reiterated its concern over attacks on commercial shipping and called for greater protection of civilian sailors navigating the region.
