ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN September 20, 2025 — In a reaffirmation of long-standing religious and diplomatic ties between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Pakistan’s Minister of Defence, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, has declared that the protection of the Islamic holy sites located in Saudi Arabia is regarded by Pakistan as a “sacred duty.”
The Defence Minister made this statement while addressing matters concerning regional security and Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to the Islamic world. He emphasized that the sanctity of the Two Holy Mosques — in Makkah and Madinah — is not only of paramount importance to Saudi Arabia but holds deep spiritual significance for the entire Muslim Ummah, including Pakistan’s over 240 million citizens.
Khawaja Asif reiterated that Pakistan stands ready, as it has in the past, to support the Kingdom in safeguarding these revered sites against any form of threat or aggression. He described this responsibility as more than a matter of diplomacy or defense — characterizing it as a religious obligation rooted in faith and brotherhood.
This reaffirmation comes amid ongoing regional security concerns and highlights Pakistan’s strategic alliance with Saudi Arabia, which has historically included military cooperation, intelligence sharing, and joint security arrangements, particularly during periods of heightened tension in the Middle East.
Observers note that Pakistan’s declaration reinforces the depth of the bilateral relationship, which extends beyond politics and economics to shared religious values and custodianship of Islamic heritage.
As global attention remains focused on the stability of the Arabian Peninsula and the safety of pilgrims visiting the holy sites, Pakistan’s vocal support is seen as both timely and symbolic.
