Pakistan says ‘substantial’ forces, resources already in Saudi Arabia under defence deal
Pakistan has confirmed that a significant number of its military forces and resources are currently deployed in Saudi Arabia under a long-standing defense agreement. The government clarified that these deployments are part of a collective security arrangement and denied involvement in cross-border operations in Yemen.
Why it matters
The confirmation highlights the strategic military alliance between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia amidst regional instability and the Houthi threat.
Pakistan on Friday (October 9, 2026) said a “substantial number” of its forces and resources were already deployed in Saudi Arabia, reaffirming its commitment to protect the kingdom's sovereignty under the Makkah defence agreement, amid concerns over the Houthi threat.
Foreign Office spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan made the remarks at his weekly press briefing in response to a question on the growing threat posed by Yemen’s Houthi rebels to Saudi Arabia.
Referring to a recent meeting of defence officials from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkiye in Riyadh, Mr. Khan said the three countries had reaffirmed their unity in ensuring deterrence and safeguarding Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He said the three countries had also agreed to mobilise resources rapidly in accordance with their requirements.
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