ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has conveyed to Iran that Saudi Arabia is its “red line” and that any attack on the Kingdom would be considered an attack on Pakistan, Reuters reported, citing Pakistani officials.
According to the British news agency, missile attacks launched earlier this week by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi movement against Saudi Arabia have raised serious concerns in Pakistan. The development has prompted Islamabad to clearly communicate its position to Tehran at the highest level.
Reuters reported that the Houthis fired missiles at Saudi Arabia on Monday after accusing the Kingdom of carrying out airstrikes on an airport under their control. The incident raised concerns in Pakistan that it could also be drawn into the escalating regional conflict.
The news agency said the evolving situation could further complicate Pakistan’s potential role as a mediator in any future engagement between the United States and Iran.
A Pakistani official told Reuters that the country’s top political and military leadership had conveyed a clear message to Iran at the highest level, stating: “Saudi Arabia is our red line. Any attack on Saudi Arabia will be considered an attack on Pakistan.”
Reuters noted that Pakistan signed a mutual defence agreement with Saudi Arabia last year.
Under the agreement, according to the news agency, thousands of Pakistani troops and a squadron of fighter aircraft are stationed in Saudi Arabia.
Reuters further reported that Pakistan had previously expressed concern over Iranian attacks on Saudi Arabia earlier this year. However, according to regional analysts and officials cited by the agency, this week’s Houthi missile attacks have significantly heightened Islamabad’s concerns, as they have increased the possibility of a renewed conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis.
