PM’s Spokesperson: Islamabad Will Stand by Riyadh “No Matter What”
Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to support Saudi Arabia as tensions rise in the Middle East following Iran’s retaliatory strikes against Gulf nations. These attacks came in response to ongoing US-Israeli military actions.
Prime Minister’s spokesperson Mosharraf Zaidi stated that Islamabad will assist Riyadh whenever needed, highlighting the strong security partnership between the two countries. Speaking to Bloomberg TV on Wednesday, Zaidi emphasized Pakistan’s firm stance: “There is no question we might, we will come to Saudi Arabia’s aid, no matter what and no matter when.”
Zaidi explained that even before a formal defense agreement, both nations had consistently supported each other during crises. He added that Pakistan is working to prevent further escalation and ensure that its closest partners do not get drawn deeper into conflict, which could threaten regional stability and prosperity.
Defense Pact Strengthens Long-Standing Partnership
In September last year, Saudi Arabia and nuclear-armed Pakistan, which shares a border with Iran, signed a defense pact, strengthening their long-standing security relationship. The agreement expanded strategic cooperation, a partnership now tested amid the Middle East crisis.
Iran has continued missile strikes on Gulf states for over a week as part of its ongoing conflict with the US and Israel. These attacks have had global consequences. Saudi Arabia reported intercepting drones targeting a major oil field on Saturday, marking the latest assault on energy infrastructure. The ongoing conflict has pushed global crude oil and gas prices higher.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia Discuss Joint Security Measures
Over the weekend, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir visited Saudi Arabia and met with Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman Al Saud. They discussed joint measures to counter Iranian drone and missile attacks targeting the kingdom.
Zaidi also noted that Saudi Arabia has arranged support for Pakistan’s oil and diesel supplies since the conflict began. The energy shortage has hit Pakistan hard as an import-dependent country. Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik confirmed that fuel shipments are arriving via the Red Sea port of Yanbu, far from the Strait of Hormuz, which remains largely closed due to the conflict.
To secure energy shipments, the Pakistan Navy announced that warships will escort commercial vessels, protecting maritime trade routes during the ongoing instability.
Possible Role for Pakistan in Strait of Hormuz Security
International relations expert Rashid Ahmad Khan from Lahore said details about the defense pact remain limited. He suggested Pakistan could be asked to help secure the Strait of Hormuz. While direct attacks on Iran are unlikely, Pakistan may provide technical support or assist in defending Saudi territory from drone strikes.
The conflict has already affected Pakistan’s economy. The government raised fuel prices by the highest margin in history, a difficult step for a country where 29% of the population lives below the poverty line. Authorities have introduced cost-cutting measures, including freezing cabinet salaries, temporarily closing schools, and shifting to a four-day workweek.
Zaidi assured that fuel stocks remain “stable to good,” with three shipments arriving this week and another expected next week.
Pakistan Maintains Diplomatic Contact with Iran
Despite rising tensions, Pakistan continues diplomatic engagement with Iran. Zaidi said Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has held continuous talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi since the conflict began. These discussions aim to manage tensions and prevent further escalation in the region.
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