Pakistan: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and security under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement (MJDA), condemning reported Houthi attacks on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and Abha International Airport that caused civilian casualties. He also called on the Houthi militia to immediately cease attacks and reiterated Islamabad’s support for Saudi Arabia’s right to defend its people and critical infrastructure.
What prompted Pakistan’s renewed security pledge?
In a statement posted on X on Friday, October 9, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attacks on Saudi airports and expressed solidarity with the kingdom’s leadership and people.
Saudi civil aviation authorities reported that attacks on October 6 and 7 killed at least three people and injured dozens more. According to the authorities, one person was killed and eight injured in the incident involving King Khalid International Airport, while two people were killed and 28 injured in an attack on facilities at Abha airport.
How did Pakistan respond to the reported attacks?
The prime minister commended the Saudi armed forces and coalition partners for intercepting multiple ballistic missiles. He praised their efforts to protect civilians and safeguard the kingdom’s territory and infrastructure.
Sharif said Pakistan fully supported Saudi Arabia’s legitimate right to defend its population and protect vital installations. He also urged the Houthis to immediately stop attacks against the kingdom.
What decisions were taken under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement?
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye agreed to facilitate the rapid deployment of previously agreed military forces and capabilities in Saudi Arabia, according to Pakistan’s Foreign Office.
The decision was taken during an emergency meeting of the agreement’s Strategic Political and Defence Committee in Riyadh. The Foreign Office said implementation would proceed under approved arrangements and in accordance with the national laws of the three participating countries.
What role are Pakistan and Türkiye playing in the conflict?
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said Pakistan and Türkiye were providing support to Saudi Arabia amid its operations against the Houthis in Yemen. Speaking on Geo News’ programme Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath, he said Saudi forces were leading the fighting, while Pakistani and Turkish personnel were providing assistance.
Asif described the supporting roles as including reconnaissance and other activities. His remarks followed the trilateral meeting in Riyadh and the announcement of arrangements for the deployment of agreed military capabilities.
What does Pakistan’s statement indicate about bilateral security cooperation?
Islamabad’s reaffirmation underscores its stated commitment to Saudi Arabia’s security under the MJDA. The latest developments also highlight continued coordination among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye as tensions involving the Houthis and Yemeni government forces intensify.