Pakistan Deploys 8,000 Troops and Fighter Jets to Saudi Arabia Amid US-Iran Tensions Pakistan has deployed 8,000 troops, a squadron of JF-17 fighter jets, and an HQ-9 air defense system to Saudi Arabia under a defense pact, escalating regional tensions amid ongoing US-Iran hostilities. The move comes as Pakistan seeks to maintain its role as a key mediator in peace talks between the United States and Iran. Reports indicate that the deployment was confirmed by three security officials and two government sources, though the Pakistani military, foreign ministry, and Saudi authorities have not issued official statements. The defense agreement, which remains confidential, stipulates that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will provide mutual defense in the event of an attack. Pakistan’s defense minister, Khwaja Asif, previously stated that Saudi Arabia would fall under Pakistan’s nuclear security umbrella under the pact. According to unverified sources, Pakistan has sent approximately 16 JF-17 fighter jets, developed in collaboration with China, to Saudi Arabia. These aircraft were deployed in April, and additional drone squadrons are also stationed in the kingdom. The deployment includes around 8,000 Pakistani troops, with Saudi Arabia covering the operational costs. A government source revealed that the pact allows for the potential deployment of up to 80,000 Pakistani soldiers to Saudi Arabia in case of heightened security threats, to bolster the kingdom’s border defenses alongside its own military. Security officials confirmed that the agreement also includes the stationing of Pakistani warships, though it remains unclear whether any vessels have arrived in Saudi waters.#pakistan #us #iran #saudi_arabia #khawaja_asif
