ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s commitment to Saudi Arabia’s security, sovereignty and territorial integrity is “absolute and non-negotiable,” a Pakistani military spokesman said, reaffirming Islamabad’s readiness to provide the Kingdom with defensive support amid ongoing attacks.
In an interview with Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said Pakistan regarded the security of Saudi Arabia and Islam’s two holiest sites as a top priority.
“The security of Saudi Arabia and the Two Holy Mosques is a top, non-negotiable priority,” Chaudhry was quoted as saying.
He added that Islamabad would provide any required defensive assistance, including military personnel, capabilities, training and logistical support.
His remarks come amid continued attacks on Saudi Arabia involving drones and missiles launched by Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement. The strikes have targeted energy facilities, aviation assets and civilian infrastructure. Saudi Civil Defense also reported on Thursday that it had intercepted and destroyed two ballistic missiles over Makkah.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a bilateral defence agreement in September last year. Subsequently, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye signed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement on August 7. Both agreements provide for collective defence in the event of an attack against a member.
Pakistani troops already deployed in Saudi Arabia
Chaudhry confirmed that Pakistani military personnel were already stationed in Saudi Arabia and serving in various capacities.
According to the report, their primary responsibilities include defensive support, joint exercises and military manoeuvres.
He said the recent attacks on Saudi Arabia had prompted the practical implementation of the Makkah alliance’s obligations, adding that the strikes had caused deep concern in Pakistan.
The military spokesman also reiterated Islamabad’s strong condemnation of attacks on Saudi airports, cities and civilian and economic infrastructure, describing them as a direct threat to the Kingdom’s sovereignty and regional stability.
Pakistan pushes dialogue with Iran
Turning to diplomatic efforts, Chaudhry said the October 26 meeting in Tehran between representatives of the Makkah Joint Defence Alliance and Iran aimed to establish a framework for de-escalation and strengthen regional cooperation.
He said Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir’s participation in the meeting, following his earlier visit to Tehran, reflected Pakistan’s commitment to dialogue and the peaceful resolution of regional disputes.
According to Chaudhry, participants agreed to continue discussions to strengthen cooperation among the four countries and promote regional peace and stability.
However, he did not disclose details of any additional agreements reached during the meeting.
