Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye are set to convene in Riyadh next week for a joint defense committee meeting aimed at addressing the rise in Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia. This gathering will focus on evaluating the current security situation and formulating collective strategies under the Makkah Joint Defense Agreement, as confirmed by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
The urgency of the talks is underscored by the recent escalation of attacks targeting Saudi territory and critical infrastructure, which Saudi authorities attribute to the Houthis. These incidents have not only heightened regional security concerns but also underscored the importance of a coordinated defense response among the three nations.
Under the terms of the Makkah Joint Defense Agreement, signed in August, an armed attack on one member is considered an attack on all three, necessitating a unified response. As part of the agreement, the upcoming meeting will play a crucial role in deciding any joint military or diplomatic actions.
Prior to this meeting, discussions among foreign ministers and military chiefs from the involved countries have already taken place, indicating a concerted effort to address the growing threat. Despite the military focus, Dar emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to pursuing diplomatic avenues alongside security measures to ease regional tensions.
The outcome of these talks is expected to shape the future course of action for the three nations as they navigate the complexities of regional security and cooperation in response to the Houthi threat.