Reuters, citing informed sources, has reported that Pakistan has dispatched 8,000 military personnel, along with a full squadron of fighter jets and air defense systems, to Saudi Arabia under their mutual defense pact.
Kabul 24: According to the report, these forces are fully operational and have been deployed to support and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s defense capabilities in the event of renewed attacks.
The deployment includes JF-17 fighter jets (jointly developed by Pakistan and China), drones, and HQ-9 air defense systems. Saudi Arabia is covering all costs of the operation, while Pakistani personnel are responsible for operating the equipment.
This move comes amid heightened regional tensions following Iran’s recent military campaign.
Sources indicate that during approximately 40 days of conflict, Iran targeted multiple key locations inside Saudi Arabia, including energy facilities and military bases, resulting in material damage and the death of at least one Saudi citizen.
The strategic defense agreement between Riyadh and Islamabad, signed in 2025, stipulates that any aggression against one country will be considered an attack on the other.
While Pakistan has previously provided military support to Saudi Arabia, the current deployment is described as unprecedented in scale.Pakistan is simultaneously playing a leading mediating role in diplomatic efforts to end the Iran-related conflict.
However, this significant military deployment underscores Islamabad’s firm commitment to Saudi Arabia’s security.
Pakistani officials have stressed that the forces are present solely for defensive and deterrent purposes and have no offensive intentions.
The troops and equipment have been stationed at King Abdulaziz Air Base in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province.
Analysts believe that additional forces could be sent if the situation escalates.This development highlights the deep military and strategic partnership between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
It is expected to significantly influence the regional balance of power and has raised concerns about the potential expansion of conflicts across the Middle East.
The deployment reflects Saudi Arabia’s efforts to bolster its defenses through trusted allies while Pakistan balances its role as a mediator with its longstanding security commitments in the Gulf.
Regional observers are closely monitoring the situation as fears of wider confrontation continue to grow.
