Pakistan has confirmed the deployment of a significant number of its military personnel to Saudi Arabia, a move aimed at bolstering the kingdom’s territorial defence under a new joint defence agreement. This development was clarified by Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Sajjad Haider Khan, who emphasized that the forces and resources stationed in Riyadh are intended for defensive purposes only. He categorically stated that the deployment is not meant to aid in cross-border attacks against Yemen’s Houthi forces.
The military presence is part of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, which Pakistan’s military has also acknowledged. This agreement, signed on August 7, 2026, in Makkah, involves Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye. It establishes a framework for regional security cooperation by committing the parties to consider an armed attack against one as an attack against all.
Pakistani troops in Saudi Arabia are engaged in various operational capacities, reflecting the broader security cooperation under the pact. The agreement’s purpose is to enhance collaborative efforts among the three nations in addressing shared security challenges in the region.
The deployment underscores the strategic ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, as well as their mutual interest in safeguarding territorial integrity amidst regional tensions. The tripartite agreement with Türkiye further solidifies a united front against potential threats.