Pakistan Confirms Longstanding Troop Presence in Saudi Arabia Amid Makkah Alliance Activation

Pakistan's military spokesperson, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has confirmed that Pakistani troops have been stationed in Saudi Arabia for decades across multiple operational domains. The confirmation, delivered during a CNN interview, comes as the newly formed Makkah Defence Alliance—comprising Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye—moves to implement collective defense commitments in response to escalating regional threats, including Houthi rebel attacks from Yemen. While Saudi forces continue to handle active combat operations, Pakistani and Turkish forces are playing supportive and reconnaissance roles under the trilateral pact.

// Background

The Makkah Joint Defence Agreement was signed on August 7, 2026, by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye to establish a collective deterrence framework where an attack on one member is treated as an attack on all. This trilateral alliance has gained urgency due to escalating regional security threats, particularly intensified missile and drone attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels targeting Saudi airports, cities, and economic installations.

// Key Developments

• DG ISPR Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry confirmed Pakistani troops have maintained a multi-domain presence in Saudi Arabia for decades.
• The Makkah Defence Alliance held an emergency meeting in Riyadh to activate collective defense commitments and arrange rapid military deployments.
• Lieutenant General (retired) Nauman Mahmood was appointed as the first Secretary General of the Makkah Alliance for a three-year term.
• Defense Minister Khawaja Asif clarified that Pakistani and Turkish forces are currently in supportive and reconnaissance roles, while Saudi forces conduct combat operations.