Pakistan has expressed strong solidarity with Saudi Arabia after Saudi air defences intercepted and destroyed a drone south of Makkah before it entered the holy city’s restricted airspace.
Saudi authorities attributed the drone to Yemen’s Houthi movement, while the Houthis denied targeting Makkah or any Islamic holy site. The competing claims come amid a sharp escalation in attacks between Houthi forces and Saudi Arabia.
Pakistan has strongly condemned the attacks and reaffirmed its support for Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and security.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan stands firmly with Saudi Arabia in protecting its territory and the security and sanctity of the Haramain Sharifain. He also praised Saudi forces for intercepting the drone.
Pakistan has also called for maximum restraint and urged all sides to step back from further escalation, stressing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy.
The incident comes as Houthi attacks on Saudi territory have intensified, with security alerts issued in several parts of the Kingdom.
The latest development has added to regional tensions, while Pakistan continues to support Saudi Arabia’s right to defend its territory and calls for efforts toward de-escalation and a political settlement in Yemen.
