Pakistan remains committed to Makkah accord, but operational details cannot be disclosed: FO
Says Pakistan concerned over continuing escalation, its implications for regional peace, security, energy supplies
The Foreign Office (FO) affirmed Pakistan's commitment to the Makkah accord on Thursday, but refrained from revealing operational specifics, citing operational confidentiality. Pakistan remains dedicated to the principles of the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) and the Makkah accord, according to FO spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan.
The spokesperson spoke about the country's stance amid the escalating Middle East crisis, where Yemen's Houthi group initiated attacks on Saudi Arabia, targeting its energy facilities. Saudi Arabia's air defences intercepted and dismantled a drone near Makkah on the previous day, yet the Houthis denied involvement. This incident elicited global condemnation.
Khan emphasized Pakistan's advocacy for regional peace and stability, calling for an end to Houthi activities. He reiterated Pakistan's focus on resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy, not through coercive measures. Pakistan has expressed deep sympathy for Saudi Arabia over the attempted drone attack on Makkah's holy sites, condemning it as a "dastardly" act.
The Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, strongly rebuked the incident, praising the Saudi Armed Forces' response and urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint. Khan affirmed Pakistan's unwavering support for Saudi Arabia's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Pakistan also condemned drone attacks targeting the East-West Pipeline in Riyadh and Madinah regions, which caused damage and injuries.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, condemned the attacks, stating they violated Saudi sovereignty and threatened regional security. PM Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on September 13, reiterating Pakistan's solidarity and commitment to de-escalation and regional peace. Khan highlighted Pakistan's welcome of Lebanese Interior Minister Ahmad al-Hajjar's visit to Pakistan for discussions on bilateral relations and growing cooperation in interior and security affairs.
The spokesperson mentioned that Pakistan had summoned the Indian High Commission's chargé d'affaires to protest an Indian naval vessel's actions in Pakistan's exclusive economic zone, viewed as provocative and unacceptable.
Written by urgent.news from The Express Tribune - Pakistan's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
