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// DOSSIER — repatriation-pakistani-sailors-houthi-attack-mv-tihamah
Repatriation of Pakistani Sailors Following Houthi Attack on MV Tihamah
REL_TIME: 22 Aug 2026 11:12Z · LANG: EN
On August 20, 2026, the bodies of Pakistani sailors killed in a Houthi missile attack on the commercial vessel Tihamah were repatriated to Karachi via Jeddah. The attack, which occurred on August 11 in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, resulted in the deaths of at least four crew members and injuries to several others. Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed the safe return of six injured seafarers and the recovery of the deceased, while strongly condemning the assault as a violation of maritime safety. The repatriation was facilitated by Saudi Arabian authorities and Pakistani diplomatic missions in the absence of a formal mission in Yemen.
// Background
The attack on the Tihamah occurs amidst a broader Houthi campaign in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which has significantly disrupted global shipping. This incident is part of a pattern where Pakistani nationals have been caught in regional crossfire, including previous fatalities from intercepted missile debris in the UAE. The Tihamah, though Tanzania-flagged, was reportedly managed by Egyptian interests and was transporting food supplies when targeted.
// Key Developments
- The vessel Tihamah was struck by three ballistic missiles on August 11, 2026, in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
- Casualties include three Pakistani sailors and one Indonesian sailor confirmed dead, with additional Yemeni military fatalities reported.
- Six injured Pakistani sailors returned to Karachi on August 20 via Saudi Airlines and Pakistan International Airlines.
- Houthi forces reportedly fired a fourth missile to disrupt rescue operations following the initial strike.
- Shipping traffic through the Red Sea has declined by over 50% due to the ongoing Houthi maritime blockade.
// Timeline
-
The vessel Tihamah is attacked by Houthi ballistic missiles in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, resulting in multiple casualties and a shipboard fire.
-
Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar issues an initial condemnation and directs the Riyadh embassy to coordinate rescue and repatriation.
-
Six injured Pakistani sailors and the remains of the deceased are repatriated to Karachi via Jeddah on Saudi Airlines flight SV700 and PIA flight PK-762.
// Perspectives
[Government of Pakistan]
Strongly condemned the attack and prioritized the 'dignified and expeditious' repatriation of its citizens while coordinating with Saudi and Yemeni authorities.
[Internationally Recognized Government of Yemen]
Labeled the attack a 'terrorist crime' and warned that such actions threaten the food security of millions of Yemenis.
[Houthi Movement]
Intensified maritime attacks following the announcement of a blockade on Saudi-linked vessels and those serving government-controlled ports.
// Quotes
“The six Pakistani sailors injured in the recent Houthi attack on a Tanzanian-flagged commercial vessel have safely returned to Pakistan, while the mortal remains of the two Pakistani sailors who tragically lost their lives have also been repatriated.”
“The safety and security of seafarers must be ensured at all times. We remain committed to extending all possible assistance to the injured sailors and the bereaved families.”
“The targeting of the food-supply vessel was part of an escalating Houthi campaign targeting ports, civilian infrastructure in government-controlled areas, and commercial vessels.”
