ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) – Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to defending Saudi Arabia, declaring that Islamabad would use its full strength to protect the kingdom against external aggression amid escalating regional tensions.
Speaking on Geo News programme Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath, Asif said Saudi Arabia’s security was as important to Pakistan as the defence of its own territory.
“It is incumbent upon us that we defend Saudi Arabia,” the minister said, emphasising that Pakistan’s relationship with the kingdom extended beyond formal diplomatic and defence agreements.
He added that Pakistan would defend Saudi Arabia with full force and provide support in accordance with its commitments.
Mutual defence agreement
Asif referred to the mutual defence arrangements involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, under which the three countries have committed to supporting one another against aggression.
He said the agreement established a collective response framework, making the protection of each member’s territory a shared responsibility.
“Just as the defence of Pakistan is paramount, the defence of Saudi Arabia is equally paramount for us,” he said.
The minister’s remarks come amid reports of attacks targeting Saudi territory and growing concerns over the possibility of a wider regional conflict.
Tehran talks focus on regional stability
Asif also discussed the recent diplomatic engagement in Tehran involving senior officials from Pakistan, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye.
The October 26 meeting focused on regional security and continued cooperation, with the participating countries agreeing to maintain dialogue to promote peace and stability.
Responding to questions about whether the discussions addressed Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia and the possibility of further US involvement, Asif said he believed the initiative was particularly relevant to developments concerning the kingdom.
He acknowledged that the possibility of US action had also likely figured in the discussions.
The minister credited Pakistan’s diplomatic and military leadership with helping facilitate the engagement, expressing hope that regional consultations would produce meaningful progress towards ending hostilities.
Pakistan hopes for progress towards peace
Asif said Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran and other regional stakeholders had been involved in efforts to reduce tensions and prevent further escalation.
He expressed cautious optimism that the diplomatic initiatives could help create conditions for a ceasefire and a broader settlement.
The minister also condemned reported attempts to target Riyadh airport and the holy sites of Makkah and Madinah, describing such developments as deeply concerning.
While expressing hope that the diplomatic process would produce results, he said further clarity would emerge as the countries involved issued statements and continued their consultations.
Asif maintained that Pakistan’s engagement with regional partners was aimed at protecting its national interests, honouring its defence commitments and supporting efforts to restore peace.
