Pakistan reaffirms Saudi defense pact amid Houthi threat to Mecca

Pakistan has reiterated its unwavering commitment to a collective defense agreement with Saudi Arabia and Turkey, emphasizing that the pact mandates joint deterrence against any armed aggression targeting its signatories. The clarification underscores Islamabad's resolve to honor its obligations under the multilateral framework amid heightened security concerns in the region.

The statement follows a reported incident in which Saudi Arabian air defenses intercepted a Houthi drone in the vicinity of Mecca, Islam's holiest city. The Houthi movement subsequently denied involvement in the attempted attack, though details of the incident remain contested between the parties.

Pakistan has stressed its broader responsibility to safeguard Muslim holy sites, noting this duty extends beyond formal treaty obligations. Senior officials emphasized that protecting the sanctity of Islamic religious centers represents a fundamental commitment rooted in faith and regional responsibility.

While reaffirming its defense commitments, Islamabad has simultaneously called for diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions and prevent further escalation of conflict across the region. Pakistani officials warned that continued hostilities risk destabilizing the broader geopolitical landscape and urged all parties to pursue dialogue to resolve underlying disputes.