No stipulation in Makkah pact bars 'direct involvement' in case of threat to a member: Asif

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif clarified on Thursday that the Makkah Defence Alliance, which includes Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, does not prohibit member states from taking direct action if a threat arises against one of its members. Speaking on ARY News programme 'Khabar Muhammad Malick Ke Saath,' Asif stated that in the event of an attack on one of the member countries, the other two would act as if they were defending themselves.

The Makkah Defence Pact, signed on August 7, aims to enhance collective deterrence and empower the signatory states to view an attack on one as an attack on all. The pact gained significance due to the ongoing conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthi rebels in Yemen. Following an emergency meeting in Riyadh, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye committed to the immediate deployment of military forces and capabilities in the kingdom.

Pakistan's Foreign Office confirmed that member states had decided to move forward with practical implementation of collective defense commitments and take the necessary measures to deploy troops in Saudi Arabia, in line with national legislation. Asif, part of Pakistan's delegation, later clarified on Geo News programme 'Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Saath' that while Pakistan and Turkey have a presence in the region, only Saudi troops are engaged in combat operations.

Pakistan has consistently reaffirmed its unconditional commitment to defending Saudi Arabia against any threats, including involvement of its troops if the situation escalates.