Pakistan will defend Saudi Arabia with full force, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has clearly stated. He stressed that the safety of the kingdom is just as important to Islamabad as the security of Pakistan itself.
Speaking on the Geo News programme “Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath”, Asif made these strong remarks while discussing ongoing regional diplomatic efforts. These talks involve Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran and Türkiye amid rising tensions linked to the Houthis.
“It is incumbent upon us that we defend Saudi Arabia,” the defence minister said. He noted that Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir had recently joined senior officials from Iran, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye in Tehran. The four countries agreed there to keep dialogue going in order to strengthen regional cooperation.
Referring to attacks aimed at Saudi Arabia, Asif added firmly: “We will defend Saudi Arabia with full force.” He explained that Pakistan’s relationship with the kingdom goes far beyond formal agreements. Islamabad is ready to extend complete support to Riyadh whenever needed.
“Just as the defence of Pakistan is paramount, the defence of Saudi Arabia is equally paramount for us,” he declared. The minister also mentioned an existing agreement under which three countries have given a written commitment to respond jointly to any threat covered by the pact.
“God willing, now that three countries are involved, by agreement also, we will defend each other’s territory against any foreign aggression,” Asif said.
He was asked about the Tehran meeting that brought together Pakistan’s army chief, the Saudi defence minister and Türkiye’s intelligence chief. Asif believed the talks were mainly related to developments concerning Saudi Arabia, though the possibility of United States action was also likely discussed.
“America, definitely, that would also have been discussed,” he noted. The presence of high-level Saudi and Turkish officials in Tehran showed how important the engagement was. Asif credited the field marshal’s efforts for making the initiative possible and said some progress had already been achieved.
He expressed hope that peace could be reached through Iran’s efforts and the involvement of other countries. Asif called the repeated targeting of Riyadh airport and attempts to attack the Haramain Sharifain “very unfortunate”.
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran and other partners in the security framework continue working to reduce tensions. “My view is that we have arrived at some sort of conclusion that can fulfil the requirements to stop this war,” the minister said. While remaining slightly guarded, he hoped clearer statements from Iran and the other countries would soon bring greater clarity and help create a more peaceful situation in the region.
