Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has condemned recent Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to the kingdom’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and security under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement. The prime minister expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and reiterated Pakistan’s support for its right to self-defence.
In a statement posted on X, Shehbaz Sharif condemned attacks targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and Abha International Airport, which reportedly caused civilian casualties. He also praised the vigilance and professionalism of Saudi armed forces and the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen for intercepting ballistic missiles.
The prime minister called on the Houthis to immediately stop their attacks, stating that Pakistan would continue to stand alongside Saudi Arabia in the face of security threats. The Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, signed on August 7, aims to strengthen collective deterrence among its signatories, including Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye.
The latest attacks came amid rising tensions between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia. The Houthis claimed responsibility for a ballistic missile attack on Riyadh’s main international airport and have also announced a maritime blockade targeting Saudi-linked shipping in the Red Sea. Saudi authorities reported that attacks on two international airports killed three people and injured 36 others, while a Saudi-led coalition said it had destroyed the missile launch platform used in the Riyadh attack.
Meanwhile, fighting continues in Yemen between Houthi forces and Saudi-backed government forces. Yemen’s internationally recognised government has announced a counter-offensive, claiming advances in strategic areas near the Red Sea and the port city of Mocha. The Houthis have disputed claims of major territorial losses.
Pakistan has repeatedly reaffirmed its support for Saudi Arabia under the defence agreement. Officials have described the alliance as defensive and intended for collective deterrence. Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye also discussed the rapid deployment of military forces and capabilities in Saudi Arabia during an emergency meeting in Riyadh on October 5.
PM Shehbaz Condemns Houthi Attacks on Saudi Arabia, Reaffirms Defence Pact Commitment
