Pakistan reverses stance on supporting Saudi Arabia against Houthis

Pakistan signaled willingness to invoke collective defence mechanisms against Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, only to backtrack on the commitment shortly after, according to statements from Islamabad's defence establishment. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif had cautioned that Pakistan would activate provisions of the Makkah Pact, an Islamic military alliance framework, in response to the militant group's operations. However, the Pakistani government reversed its position within hours, effectively withdrawing support for direct military involvement alongside Saudi forces. The about-face marks a significant shift in Pakistan's regional positioning, as Riyadh had anticipated military assistance through the Islamic military coalition established to counter various security threats in the Arabian Peninsula. Pakistan's hesitation reflects complex diplomatic considerations, including its existing ties with Iran and domestic political sensitivities regarding military commitments abroad. The reversal underscores the challenges facing Saudi-led initiatives to build consensus among Islamic nations for coordinated military action in the region.