What happened
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned recent attacks launched by Houthi forces against Saudi Arabia, according to Dawn. The strikes targeted critical transport hubs, including Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. Saudi authorities stated that the strikes resulted in three deaths and 36 injuries, while Houthi forces claimed responsibility for launching a ballistic missile at the capital's main airport.
In a statement published on social media platform X, Prime Minister Shehbaz commended the Saudi armed forces and the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen for intercepting ballistic missiles. He urged Houthi fighters to cease their assaults immediately and reaffirmed Pakistan's resolute support for Saudi Arabia's right to self-defence.
Key facts
- Makkah Defence Alliance: Signed on August 7 by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye, the trilateral security agreement mandates that an attack against any member state is treated as an attack against all signatories.
- Military Obligations: During an emergency meeting in Riyadh on October 5, member states agreed to a rapid deployment of military forces and capabilities within the kingdom. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif clarified that while Pakistan and Turkiye have a "presence in theatre," combat operations are carried out solely by Saudi troops.
- Official Commitments: Inter-Services Public Relations Director General Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry stated on September 18 that Pakistan's pledge to defend the Gulf nation is unconditional and that Islamabad would go to any extent to preserve its security.
- Regional Conflict Context: Hostilities increased after Yemen's civil war reignited in July, leading Houthis to enforce a maritime blockade targeting Saudi ships in the Red Sea. Although Yemen's internationally recognized government declared a counter-offensive claiming control over strategic Red Sea areas, military sources told AFP there have been no significant changes on the ground.
Why it matters
Prime Minister Shehbaz's stance highlights Pakistan's commitment to uphold its defense obligations under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement. Pakistani leadership has stressed that while the pact provides practical and diplomatic backing during security escalations, the alliance remains purely defensive and aims to strengthen collective deterrence across the region.
Source: Dawn - Home · Published October 09, 2026 · Photo by Wanman uthmaniyyah on Unsplash