Pakistan Cannot Let Saudi War Pact Drag It Into Yemen

Pakistan finds itself in a precarious position, caught between the need to safeguard its nuclear status, global reputation, and economic interests, while avoiding involvement in the Saudi-led war in Yemen. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has revealed that Pakistan's armed forces are currently stationed in the Kingdom, contributing to various domains.

Saudi Arabia is viewed as a strategic partner, and any attacks on its holy sites are taken seriously by Pakistan, which has also expressed support for Saudi Arabia's sovereignty and security. However, there is a significant distinction between aiding Saudi Arabia's defense and engaging in an all-out war in Yemen, which is perceived as being driven by propaganda.

The Makkah Joint Defence Agreement has drawn Pakistan and Turkey into the conflict, treating an armed attack on one member as an attack on all three. This agreement places Pakistan in a difficult position, as it must weigh its genuine interest in Saudi Arabia's stability against the potential negative consequences of sending its armed forces into Yemen.

These consequences include higher oil prices, freight costs, and inflation, as well as Pakistan's already numerous challenges, such as Indian terrorism, economic pressure, border tensions, and internal security issues. While Pakistan can support its interests through defensive deployments, intelligence sharing, air defense, maritime security, and logistical assistance, it should not become entangled in Saudi Arabia's war.

Instead, Pakistan can take a firm stand with its ally without turning Yemen into another battlefield for Pakistan.