Pakistan weighs its defence options as Houthi strikes hit Saudi Arabia

On September 19 Saudi authorities said a Houthi-launched ballistic missile aimed at Riyadh was successfully intercepted, with no casualties reported, while additional strikes hit other parts of the kingdom. The incident has placed Pakistan’s strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia under scrutiny. Islamabad, which signed the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye on August 7, described the pact as a defensive framework meant to bolster regional peace and deter destabilising actions.

Although Pakistan’s foreign and defence ministries said no military response has been discussed, they emphasized readiness to act if the threat persists. Recent statements from senior Pakistani officials, including the defence minister, highlighted a continued commitment to Saudi security, though operational specifics remain confidential. The trilateral deal also envisions deeper defence industry collaboration and a secretariat in Saudi Arabia, with Turkey signalling willingness to assist under the arrangement. Pakistan’s response will balance its historic ties to Riyadh with broader diplomatic efforts to prevent wider escalation in the region.