Shehbaz Sharif Condemns Houthi Attacks on Saudi Airports

Islamabad (GNP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has strongly condemned Houthi attacks on two airports in Saudi Arabia that killed three people and injured dozens, calling them a grave violation of the kingdom’s sovereignty and a threat to regional security.

In a statement posted on X, Sharif named the strikes on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and Abha International Airport. He described them as part of repeated attacks by the Houthi militia and said they caused civilian deaths and injuries.

The prime minister then turned to the response on the Saudi side. He commended the vigilance and professionalism of the Saudi armed forces and the Coalition in intercepting multiple ballistic missiles and working to protect innocent lives.

From there, Sharif moved to Pakistan’s own position. He said Islamabad stands in solidarity with the leadership and people of Saudi Arabia, and that its commitment to the kingdom’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and security remains firm under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement.

He also pointed to the recent decisions of the agreement’s Strategic Political and Defence Committee as the basis for that commitment. Pakistan, he added, fully supports Saudi Arabia’s legitimate right to defend its people, cities and vital infrastructure.

The statement echoes remarks made earlier last month by Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif. In an interview, he said any threat to Saudi Arabia would be treated as a threat to Pakistan. He added that Pakistan had no doubt the Houthis were committing aggression against the kingdom.

Asif also said Pakistan would stand with Saudi Arabia in any conflict, whether it came from the Houthis, a country or any other group threatening its security.

Also Read: Pakistan Dismisses Claim of PAF Jets Used Against Houthis

That position rests on the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, which Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye signed on August 7. Under it, an attack on one member is treated as an attack on all three. The countries have described the pact as defensive and not directed against any particular state.

Against this backdrop, Sharif closed his statement with a direct call on the Houthis to stop. He stressed the need to protect civilians and prevent further escalation.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, “The Houthi militia must immediately cease these attacks.”