Pakistan has deployed 8,000 troops, a squadron of fighter jets, and an air defense system to Saudi Arabia under a mutual defense pact, Reuters reported on Monday, citing security and government officials. The officials described the Pakistani deployment as a “substantial, combat-capable force intended to support Saudi Arabia’s military if the kingdom comes under further attack,” Reuters wrote. Pakistan’s military cooperation with the Saudi kingdom is expanding amid threats by the US and Israel to renew military operations against Iran, which ceased following the announcement of a ceasefire on April 8. During the war, Iran carried out attacks against US military bases and energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia in response to the kingdom’s support for the US and Israeli aggression. Saudi Arabia responded by launching numerous unpublicized strikes on Iran. However, Riyadh has sought in recent weeks to de-escalate the conflict, while Islamabad has served as a mediator in talks between Washington and Tehran. The defense agreement signed between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan reportedly requires both Islamic countries to come to each other’s defense in the event of an attack. Reuters noted that Saudi Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has previously suggested the agreement offers Saudi Arabia protection under Pakistan’s nuclear umbrella. According to the sources speaking [...]
