Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Saudi Arabia’s security, saying Islamabad stands shoulder to shoulder with Riyadh amid recent attacks attributed to Yemen’s Houthis.
In a message marking Saudi National Day, the prime minister congratulated King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the people of Saudi Arabia. He also reiterated Pakistan’s condemnation of recent Houthi attacks, including an attempted drone attack near Makkah. Saudi authorities said their air defences destroyed a drone south of the holy city before it entered prohibited airspace. Houthi officials have denied that their operations targeted Makkah.
Shehbaz said any threat to the Haramain Sharifain deeply affects Muslims worldwide. He stressed that Pakistan supports Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and security.
Pakistan’s military leadership has also publicly expressed support for the Kingdom. ISPR Director General Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said Pakistan would support Saudi Arabia through diplomatic and physical measures, according to reporting by Arab News and APP.
The prime minister also highlighted the longstanding Pakistan-Saudi relationship, describing it as a partnership built on shared faith, mutual trust and historical ties. He said the relationship was developing into a stronger strategic partnership focused on peace, security and cooperation.
Shehbaz also referred to the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement and the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, presenting them as important elements of bilateral security cooperation.
The renewed statements come as regional tensions remain elevated following attacks involving Saudi Arabia and the wider Red Sea region. Pakistan has also called for restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation.
The prime minister is currently in New York for the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, where Pakistan is holding diplomatic engagements on regional security and international issues.
The latest message underscores Islamabad’s stated intention to maintain close strategic and diplomatic ties with Riyadh while supporting efforts aimed at regional stability.
