Pakistan Army (DG ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has stated that Pakistan's military presence in Saudi Arabia reflects the longstanding defense cooperation between the two countries. He emphasized that the primary objective of the Mecca Mutual Defense Agreement is to protect Saudi Arabia and the Two Holy Mosques, adding that Pakistan remains committed to fulfilling this responsibility.
During an interview, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry was asked whether Pakistan could maintain a neutral position in the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, given previous attacks on Saudi Arabia and concerns about regional security. The discussion also addressed the role of Iran-aligned groups, including Yemen's Houthis, and the implications of the mutual defense agreement for Pakistan's regional position.
Responding to these concerns, the DG ISPR explained that the fundamental principle of the Mecca Mutual Defense Agreement is that an attack on one member country is considered an attack on all. However, he clarified that the agreement is defensive in nature and is not intended to designate any particular country as an enemy. He reiterated that protecting Saudi Arabia and the Two Holy Mosques remains the central purpose of this defense cooperation.
Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry further stressed that Pakistan supports a peaceful resolution to the ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran through dialogue and negotiations. He said Pakistan would continue making efforts to reduce differences between the parties and encourage diplomatic engagement to promote regional stability and prevent further escalation of the conflict.
