PM Shehbaz Condemns Houthi Attacks and Urges Immediate End to Aggression
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday reaffirmed Pakistan’s firm commitment to Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and security under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement (MJDA). The statement came amid repeated Houthi attacks on the kingdom.
In a post on X, the prime minister strongly condemned the targeting of King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and Abha International Airport by Houthi forces. The attacks caused civilian deaths and injuries.
Casualties Reported in Saudi Airport Attacks
Saudi civil aviation authorities confirmed that at least three people were killed in the attacks on October 6 and 7. One person died and eight were wounded at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. Two people were killed and 28 were injured at Abha airport.
The authorities did not specify which attack occurred on which day.
Praise for Saudi Armed Forces
Prime Minister Shehbaz praised the vigilance and professionalism of the Saudi armed forces and the coalition. He highlighted their success in intercepting multiple ballistic missiles and their efforts to protect civilian lives and safeguard the kingdom.
He reiterated that Pakistan stands in full solidarity with the leadership and people of Saudi Arabia.
Commitment Under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement
“In line with the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, and recent decisions taken by its Strategic Political and Defence Committee, our commitment to the Kingdom’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and security is resolute,” the prime minister said.
Pakistan fully supports Saudi Arabia’s legitimate right to defend its people and protect its cities and vital infrastructure. He also called on the Houthi militia to immediately cease these attacks, stating that Islamabad will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Riyadh.
Recent Decisions on Military Support
The remarks follow an emergency meeting of the MJDA in Riyadh on October 6. Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye agreed to ensure the rapid deployment of agreed military forces and capabilities in Saudi Arabia. The Foreign Office confirmed that the arrangement would follow approved protocols and the national laws of the three countries.
Later the same day, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that Pakistan and Türkiye are providing support to Saudi Arabia in its operations against the Houthis in Yemen.
“Both countries have a presence here, but the army fighting is that of Saudi Arabia. We are here and providing any assistance they need,” he said. He clarified that the Pakistani and Turkish forces are playing a supportive role, including reconnaissance and related activities.
