Pakistan, Saudi Arabia discuss joint measures to halt Iranian attacks
Chief of Defence Forces Asim Munir and Minister of Defense Khalid Bin Salman met today to discuss the security situation arising from the US-Israel war on Iran. PHOTO: ISPR
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia discussed joint measures to stop ongoing drone and missile attacks by Iran in a significant move against the backdrop of ongoing Iran and US-Israel war, it emerged here on Saturday.
The moves comes after a meeting between Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Saudi Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman held in Riyadh, according to military's media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
"Both discussed the gravity of security situation accruing from Iranian drone and missile attacks on the Kingdom and joint measures needed to halt them within the framework of Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement," read the ISPR statement.
Read: Israel launches ‘broad-scale’ strikes on Tehran as Iran fires new missile wave
In a post on X, Prince Khalid reiterated the desire to find appropriate measures to stop Iranian attacks under the SMDA.
Met with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defense Forces, Field Marshal Asim Munir. We discussed Iranian attacks on the Kingdom and the measures needed to halt them within the framework of our Joint Strategic Defense Agreement. We stressed that such actions undermine… pic.twitter.com/OuELnf9LU6
It was emphasised that unprovoked aggression undermines efforts for regional security and stability and foreclose options for peaceful settlement of disputes.
"Both sides expressed hope and desire that brotherly country Iran would manifest prudence and sagacity to avoid any miscalculation and strengthen the hands of friendly countries seeking peaceful settlement of the crisis," the statement further said.
The meeting assumes particular significance as it comes amid escalating regional tensions and signals the first time the Pakistan-Saudi defence pact has effectively been invoked since it was concluded in September last year.
Pakistan has been walking a diplomatic tightrope as tensions rise between Iran and Saudi Arabia, traditionally avoiding being drawn into conflicts between Muslim countries despite its longstanding strategic ties with Riyadh.
Diplomatic sources said Islamabad has already conveyed its concerns to Tehran and reminded Iranian officials of the defence agreement with Saudi Arabia.
In parallel diplomatic outreach, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has spoken twice with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi in recent days, urging Tehran not to attack Gulf countries particuarly Saudi Arabia with which Pakistan has close ties.