Pakistan: Pakistan on Sunday condemned the Houthi attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and reaffirmed its commitment to Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and security.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed solidarity with the Saudi leadership and people following the attack, which Saudi authorities said killed at least 12 people and injured 309 others.
Sharif extended condolences to the victims’ families and wished the injured a swift recovery. He said attacks targeting civilians and critical infrastructure were unacceptable, violated international law and threatened regional peace and stability.
What Did Pakistan’s Foreign Office Say?
The Foreign Office (FO) condemned the attack, describing the targeting of a civilian airport as an act of terrorism and a serious threat to regional security.
The FO expressed concern over the reported casualties and called on the international community to condemn attacks on civilian populations and critical infrastructure. It urged the Houthi movement to immediately cease such attacks.
Pakistan also reaffirmed its support for Saudi Arabia’s right to defend its territory, protect its population and safeguard vital infrastructure against threats.
The statement reiterated Islamabad’s commitment under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement and referred to the countries’ longstanding bilateral ties.
What Is the Latest on Pakistan-Saudi Defence Cooperation?
The condemnation follows a meeting of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement’s Strategic, Political and Defence Committee in Riyadh. According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the meeting on October 6 resulted in an agreement among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye to facilitate the rapid deployment of agreed military forces and capabilities under approved arrangements and national laws.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also confirmed that Pakistan and Türkiye had been providing support to Saudi Arabia in its operations against the Houthis in Yemen.
Pakistan said it would continue to stand with Saudi Arabia and support efforts to protect the kingdom’s sovereignty, security and stability.