By Dr. Abdul Ghani
E. Mail: Ghanillm@yahoo.com
Published By:ANI News Agency
The relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is not an ordinary diplomatic arrangement shaped by temporary interests. It is a historic partnership founded upon faith, mutual trust, strategic cooperation and deep public affection. Whenever Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty or the sanctity of the Two Holy Mosques is threatened, the people of Pakistan naturally express concern. At such sensitive moments, however, national responsibility requires that emotion be guided by facts, law and strategic wisdom.
The Houthis, officially known as Ansar Allah, emerged as a political and armed movement in northern Yemen. They captured the capital, Sana’a, in 2014 and displaced the internationally recognised government. Their rise transformed Yemen’s political crisis into a devastating civil war that has caused enormous human suffering and drawn regional powers into a prolonged confrontation.
Saudi Arabia intervened in Yemen in 2015 at the request of the internationally recognised Yemeni government. The Houthis subsequently began treating Saudi territory as part of their military theatre. Missile and drone attacks against Saudi cities, airports and energy installations have endangered civilians and undermined regional stability. Regardless of political grievances, attacks that place civilian lives, religious sites or essential infrastructure at risk cannot be justified.
The Houthi threat is not confined to Saudi Arabia. Their growing missile and drone capabilities, combined with their position near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, have wider consequences. This strategic maritime passage connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and serves as a vital artery of international commerce. Any disruption there can affect global shipping, energy prices and supply chains. Houthi aggression must therefore be viewed not merely as an internal Yemeni issue but as a serious challenge to regional peace and international economic security.
In this delicate environment, the professionalism of the Pakistan Army assumes particular importance. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have maintained defence cooperation for decades. Pakistani military personnel have contributed to the training and professional development of Saudi forces, while the armed forces of both countries regularly conduct joint exercises and share expertise in counterterrorism, defence planning and operational preparedness.
This cooperation was further strengthened by the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement, signed in September 2025 and sometimes described in public discourse as the “Makkah Defence Accord.” The agreement declared that aggression against either country would be considered aggression against both. It reflected the depth of the relationship and sent a clear message that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia would not stand isolated when confronted by external aggression.
The Houthis must not mistake Pakistan’s preference for peace as a sign of weakness. The Pakistan Army has repeatedly demonstrated, including during confrontations with India, that it possesses the discipline, operational readiness and professional capability to deliver a swift, proportionate and decisive response whenever sovereignty or vital security interests are threatened. Houthi leaders should therefore carefully consider the consequences before undertaking any aggression against Saudi Arabia. Pakistan seeks neither escalation nor war; nevertheless, its history establishes one unmistakable principle: it exercises restraint for the sake of peace, but when compelled to defend itself or fulfil a lawful defence commitment, its armed forces possess both the resolve and capacity to respond effectively.
This warning must not be interpreted as reckless enthusiasm for war. A professional military does not act through slogans, anger or speculation. It operates under constitutional authority, clearly defined national policy and lawful governmental decisions. No claim should be made about Pakistani forces entering the Yemeni conflict unless officially confirmed. Pakistan’s defence commitment should remain focused on deterrence, preparedness, training, intelligence cooperation and the protection of Saudi sovereignty.
The Pakistan Army commands international respect not only because of its combat capability but also because of its discipline and experience. From counterterrorism operations within Pakistan to participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions, it has demonstrated an ability to operate in exceptionally difficult environments. Its professional strength lies in combining readiness with restraint, and courage with strategic judgement.
Protecting Saudi Arabia does not mean supporting an endless war in Yemen. Pakistan must continue advocating an inclusive political settlement that respects Yemen’s sovereignty, restores peace and alleviates the suffering of its people. Islamabad also maintains important relations with Iran and should use its diplomatic position to encourage de-escalation. Dialogue remains the preferred course, but meaningful dialogue cannot flourish under the shadow of missiles and drones.
The Muslim world needs responsible leadership, regional cooperation and firm opposition to attacks on civilians. The Houthis must recognise that military pressure can provide Yemen with neither permanent peace nor legitimate governance. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, possesses the inherent right to protect its citizens, territory and critical infrastructure.
Pakistan’s message should consequently be balanced but unmistakable: it seeks peace in Yemen, values constructive relations with regional states and opposes unnecessary escalation. At the same time, its historic friendship with Saudi Arabia and its commitment to the Kingdom’s security cannot be disregarded.
The Pakistan Army stands as a disciplined guardian of this sacred brotherhood, not through reckless rhetoric, but through preparedness, professionalism and resolve. Its objective is not to expand war but to deter aggression, protect peace and demonstrate that loyalty, restraint and strength remain Pakistan’s most credible contributions to collective security.
