Houthi attacks expose gaps in Pakistan's defence pact with Saudi Arabia

Houthi attacks highlight limitations in Pakistan's defense pact with Saudi Arabia and Turkey. The Mecca Joint Defence Agreement commits signatories to treat an attack on one as an attack on all, reminiscent of NATO's Article 5. However, this pledge was put to the test when Iran-backed Houthi forces launched a drone and missile assault on Saudi Arabia, targeting vital military and energy assets on September 8.

Initially, neither Pakistan nor Turkey initiated military responses, opting instead for diplomatic statements. Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif affirmed Pakistan's commitment to the pact, while foreign ministry spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan stated there were no active discussions about military action. This demonstrates a growing disparity between political solidarity and direct military involvement, leaving Pakistan to navigate its alliance with Saudi Arabia against strained ties with Iran.

Pakistan's history includes a military presence in Saudi Arabia and a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement signed in 2025, during which Pakistani troops were stationed at a Saudi base to bolster regional security. However, the challenge lies in differentiating between protecting Saudi territory and participating in offensive operations against the Houthis in Yemen.

Some experts believe both nations are keen to prevent the conflict from expanding into a broader regional war. The situation remains tense, particularly if Houthi strikes intensify, as Pakistan must carefully balance its defensive support with avoiding further escalation.