Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has strongly condemned the attempted drone attack near Makkah and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Saudi Arabia. He also stressed Pakistan’s commitment to protecting Saudi sovereignty and the sanctity of the Haramain Sharifain.
“I condemn in the strongest possible terms the dastardly and heinous attempted drone attack against the Holy Site of Makkah Al-Mukarramah. Pakistan stands unwaveringly, shoulder to shoulder with the brotherly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in the defence of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as for the security and sanctity of the Haramain Sharifain – a duty that every Pakistani carries close to their heart,” said PM Shehbaz in a statement on X.
Saudi Forces Intercept Drone Near Makkah
Saudi air defences intercepted and destroyed a drone south of Makkah on Tuesday evening. The interception took place before the drone entered the holy city’s prohibited airspace, according to Saudi authorities.
The Saudi-led coalition described the security of the Two Holy Mosques and pilgrims as a “red line”. It also said further measures could be taken to deter additional attacks.
Meanwhile, a Houthi military source denied posing any threat to Makkah or other Islamic holy sites. The group rejected the allegation that it had targeted the holy city.
Shehbaz Expresses Solidarity With Saudi Arabia
The incident prompted a strong response from Prime Minister Shehbaz, who expressed solidarity with the Saudi people. He said people in Pakistan were deeply saddened and disturbed by what he described as an outrageous act.
“There can be no words strong enough to capture the depth of anguish and sorrow felt by us at this reprehensible and unforgivable act.”
The prime minister also praised Saudi forces for intercepting the drone and protecting the holy city.
The premier said Pakistan “salute the extraordinary vigilance, courage, and professionalism of the Royal Saudi Armed Forces” for their “swift and heroic action”.
PM Calls for Restraint Amid Regional Tensions
Shehbaz Sharif also urged all sides to avoid actions that could further intensify regional tensions. He called for restraint while stressing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy.
“I once again call upon all parties to exercise maximum restraint and to step back from the brink of further escalation. Our region has already suffered far too much from conflict. Dialogue and diplomacy remain the only sustainable path towards peace,” the prime minister added.
Saudi Arabia has meanwhile issued security alerts in several areas following a series of attacks amid rising regional tensions. The recent escalation has also affected security conditions around the kingdom.
Houthi Attacks Add to Saudi Security Concerns
The Houthis have recently claimed several attacks against Saudi targets amid renewed fighting in the region. Their activities have also focused attention on Yemen’s Red Sea coastline and the strategic Bab el-Mandeb shipping route.
The group has announced attacks on Saudi targets during the past week. However, it has separately denied targeting Makkah or other Islamic holy sites.
The latest incident comes after previous Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia. Saudi authorities have also faced attacks affecting important infrastructure during the broader regional conflict.
Makkah Defence Pact Adds to the Regional Context
The incident also comes after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye formalised their strategic ties through the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement.
The trilateral framework aims to strengthen defence cooperation, collective deterrence and regional security. It was signed during the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Summit for Joint Defence.
The agreement has drawn comparisons with established military alliances. However, security analysts have described it as a formalisation of longstanding strategic cooperation rather than a new offensive military bloc.
Against this backdrop, Shehbaz’s latest statement underscores Pakistan’s publicly expressed support for Saudi Arabia while also calling for restraint and diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.
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