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Pakistan deploys JF-17 jets to Saudi (Img: Internet)
New Delhi: Amid growing uncertainty over the future of the US-Iran ceasefire, Pakistan has reportedly deployed thousands of troops, fighter aircraft and air defence systems to Saudi Arabia under a long-standing bilateral defence arrangement.
According to multiple reports citing Pakistani military and government sources, the deployment includes around 8,000 troops, a squadron of JF-17 fighter jets, drone units and the HQ-9 air defence system. The forces are believed to be operating under a mutual defence pact between Islamabad and Riyadh.
Officials familiar with the arrangement described the deployment as a combat-capable support force intended to assist Saudi Arabia if regional tensions escalate further.
The military package reportedly includes nearly 16 JF-17 fighter aircraft, jointly developed by Pakistan and China, along with two drone squadrons and advanced air defence assets. Reports claimed that all systems are being operated by Pakistani personnel while Saudi Arabia is financing the deployment.
Pakistan had earlier extended military assistance to Saudi Arabia following attacks on critical Saudi energy facilities during earlier phases of regional instability involving Iran.
The development comes as diplomatic efforts to maintain peace between the United States and Iran remain under strain. Although a ceasefire brokered in April continues to hold formally, disagreements reportedly persist over Tehran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief and regional security concerns.
Reports also suggested that Iran recently submitted a revised peace proposal through Pakistan, which has been playing a mediation role between Tehran and Washington.
US President Donald Trump recently warned Iran that time was running out to reach an agreement, increasing concerns about possible renewed military escalation in the region.
The latest military deployment has also raised questions regarding Pakistan’s neutral role in regional diplomacy. Reports in recent days claimed that Iranian military aircraft were allowed temporary shelter at Pakistani airbases during the conflict, though there has been no official confirmation.
Some reports further claimed that the defence agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia could allow a much larger troop deployment if required. However, authorities have not publicly commented on the specifics of the arrangement.
