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Makkah Defence Alliance: Powerful Warning by Khawaja Asif | Shyok Times

Makkah Defence Alliance could become operational if Houthi attacks or the wider Yemen conflict spill over into Saudi Arabia, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has warned, saying Pakistan remains bound by the terms of its trilateral defence agreement with Saudi Arabia and Turkiye.

Speaking on Geo News’ programme Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath, Asif said the agreement contains no ambiguity over collective defence. Under the pact, aggression against one member is treated as aggression against all three countries.

“This is a joint defence pact,” Asif said, adding that any unprovoked aggression or spillover from Yemen into Saudi territory could activate the agreement.

The defence minister stressed that Pakistan would honour its commitments if the situation required a collective response. However, he expressed hope that tensions would be brought under control and that further escalation could be avoided.

The warning followed Houthi attacks on several southern Saudi cities, including Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan and Najran. Saudi authorities said the attacks caused dozens of injuries and affected oil-related and strategic facilities.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attacks and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.

 


The Makkah Defence Alliance, signed by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye on August 7, is aimed at strengthening collective security and defence cooperation among the three countries. The agreement has assumed greater significance amid escalating tensions across the Middle East.

Asif described the pact as defensive rather than aggressive, saying its purpose is deterrence and collective protection. He also highlighted Pakistan’s longstanding strategic and diplomatic relationship with Saudi Arabia.

The minister further said Islamabad’s efforts to encourage dialogue between the United States and Iran were continuing, despite a stalemate in negotiations. He said Pakistan would continue supporting de-escalation and a peaceful resolution to regional tensions.

The latest developments have placed renewed attention on the Makkah Defence Alliance and its potential role in responding to threats against any of its member states.

External Resources (DoFollow):

Follow more on DAWN: Asif warns Makkah defence pact could become operational
Read further at GEO TV: Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia could trigger Makkah defence pact