Islamic NATO Fails First Test as Houthi Rebels Strike Deep into Saudi Territory
The recent escalation of tensions between Saudi Arabia and the Houthi rebels has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the Islamic NATO alliance, formed by Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan. On August 7, 2026, the three countries signed a collective defence agreement modelled on NATO's Article 5.
The agreement was put to the test when Houthi rebels launched large-scale attacks against Saudi Arabian targets on September 8, including an airbase in Khamis Mushait and facilities belonging to state-owned oil company Aramco. The strikes also injured at least 73 people, including women and children.
Riyadh responded with airstrikes on the Juba district in Yemen and Taiz province. However, the Houthi advance along the coast has been significant, with the group establishing a foothold at the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a vital waterway for Saudi oil exports.
The Islamic NATO alliance has yet to take decisive action, with Pakistan and Türkiye adopting cautious positions. Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warned that continued aggression against Saudi Arabia could trigger the pact's provisions, but Islamabad has sought to temper expectations of an immediate military response.