Asif warns Makkah defence pact could become operational after Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has expressed concern that the Makkah Defence Alliance, a tripartite pact between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye, could be activated in the event of "spillover" from the conflict in Yemen to Saudi Arabia. This comes after a series of Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabian oil installations on Tuesday, which resulted in 73 injuries.

The defence pact, signed on August 7, seeks to fortify collective deterrence and empower the signatory states to treat an attack on one of them as an attack against all. During an appearance on Geo News show 'Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath,' Asif confirmed that the pact would indeed become operational in such circumstances, emphasizing that aggression against one member state is equivalent to aggression against all.

He reiteratively stated that Pakistan, as a signatory, is obliged to respond under the pact in case of aggression. Asif clarified that the pact is not aggressive in nature but is meant to ensure joint defence and collective assistance in the face of aggression. He expressed optimism that the situation would be brought under control, and hoped that the Houthis would recognize that any attempts to export their internal disputes would invoke the pact's provisions for confronting aggression.

Asif underscored that the Houthis are non-state actors, and Yemen's government has responded to their attacks. He noted that the pact could serve as a deterrent and that the member states have established their strengths to respond to aggression without resorting to it. Asif highlighted the long-standing ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and the kingdom's request for assistance in the past.

He also remarked on the stalemate in US-Iran negotiations, expressing hope that all avenues are not closed. Asif acknowledged Pakistan's delicate position in the conflict, given its relationships with countries on both sides, and urged for an end to the cycle of violence, warning that Israel would benefit from the continued turmoil.