Pakistan's Military Role in Saudi Arabia Under Scrutiny Amid Houthi Strikes

Pakistan's military role in Saudi Arabia is under scrutiny as Houthi strikes continue to intensify. Over the past two weeks, Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis have launched a sustained campaign of missile and drone strikes against southern Saudi Arabia, hitting civilian areas, energy facilities, and military sites.

The attacks have caused at least 86 civilian injuries and fires at oil installations, with temporary disruptions to operations reported in several regions. The crisis is putting pressure on Pakistan's defense role, particularly after the signing of the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan in August.

Despite having a substantial military footprint in Saudi Arabia, including 8,000 troops and advanced equipment, none of these assets have been publicly reported as engaged in intercepting Houthi missiles and drones. The Pakistani government must secure parliamentary ratification for the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement before it can be implemented.

The crisis is also affecting global oil markets, with Saudi Arabia likely to face difficulty maintaining seamless oil supply through October and November due to the disruption of flows through the Red Sea export hub at Yanbu.