Middle East Conflict: Pakistan Deploys 8,000 Troops, Fighter jets in Saudi Arabia amid Iran war

Riyadh: Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Pakistan has deployed approximately 8,000 troops, a full squadron of combat aircraft, and an advanced air defense system to Saudi Arabia under a mutual defense agreement. According to a Reuters report, three security officials and two government sources have confirmed this deployment. Talking to the media, officials described the move as a "significant combat-capable force," aimed at providing robust support to the Saudi military in the event of a major attack on the Kingdom. However, no official statement regarding this matter has yet been issued by Pakistan's military or Foreign Ministry, nor by the Saudi government's media office.

What is happening between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia?

Sources revealed that Pakistan has dispatched a full squadron of approximately 16 aircraft to Saudi Arabia, comprising primarily JF-17 Thunder combat jets—developed jointly with China. These aircraft arrived in early April. Additionally, two drone squadrons have been deployed. Approximately 8,000 Pakistani troops have been stationed there, with a pledge to send further reinforcements if required. The deployment also includes the Chinese-origin HQ-9 air defense system, which is being operated by Pakistani personnel, with the costs being borne by Saudi Arabia.

Two security officials stated that, in the event of a potential conflict involving Iran, the primary role of the deployed military and air force personnel would be to provide advisory and training support. According to information cited from official documents, this new deployment further augments the existing contingent of thousands of Pakistani troops already stationed in Saudi Arabia.

How many troops has Pakistan sent to Saudi Arabia?

Citing a confidential agreement, a government source noted that the pact includes provisions for the deployment of up to 80,000 Pakistani troops in Saudi Arabia. The agreement also mentions the deployment of Pakistani warships; however, it remains unclear whether any such vessels have actually arrived.

It had previously been reported that Pakistan had dispatched fighter jets following attacks attributed to Iran, in which Saudi energy infrastructure was targeted and a Saudi national was killed. At that time, fears of a large-scale retaliatory conflict in the Gulf region had intensified. This deployment took place at a time when Pakistan was playing the role of a key mediator in brokering a ceasefire between the United States and Iran. Islamabad had also hosted a round of peace talks regarding the ceasefire, which had been in effect for six weeks.

Notably, the terms of the defense agreement signed in 2025 remain confidential; however, both nations have clarified that they are bound to defend one another in the event of an attack. Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has already indicated that this agreement places Saudi Arabia under Pakistan's nuclear umbrella.