Pakistan Says Mecca Defence Pact Could Be Activated Over Houthi Attacks

Pakistani officials have stated that the so-called Mecca defence agreement with Saudi Arabia could be activated should Yemen's Houthi movement continue carrying out attacks against Saudi Arabia.

The warning comes amid continued threats and actions from the Iran-aligned Houthis in the region, including strikes targeting Saudi-linked interests. Pakistan's statement underscores that the defence arrangement between the two countries commits them to mutual support in the event of a security threat.

Pact Seen as a Deterrent

Pakistan's remarks are being viewed as a signal to the Houthis and their backers that further attacks on Saudi Arabia could trigger a broader regional response involving Pakistan as a treaty partner. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have a long-standing military and political relationship, and the mere existence of such a pact functions as a deterrent against additional strikes.

No further details have been given on what specific steps or military involvement would follow if the pact were formally activated. The situation in Yemen and the wider Red Sea region has long been a source of tension between the Houthi movement, the Saudi-led coalition, and other regional and international actors.