Iran criticises Saudi-Pakistan-Turkey defence pact as it becomes operational

The trilateral defence pact signed in August between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey entered its operational phase on Oct. 5, after a surge in Houthi missile and drone attacks on Saudi infrastructure. Under the agreement, Pakistani and Turkish forces are expected to provide military, technical and intelligence support to Saudi Arabia, though officials say they will not take part in offensive operations in Yemen.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said the rumor of tens of thousands of Pakistani troops being deployed to Saudi Arabia was unfounded and expressed concern that any intervention in Yemen could have “undesirable consequences for the region.”

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged neighbouring states to pursue “self-reliance” and “genuine brotherhood,” adding that such agreements would not limit Iran’s options.

Members of Iran’s parliament dismissed the pact as largely symbolic. Ahmad Bakhshayesh called it a “paper and political pact,” while Ebrahim Rezaei warned Saudi Arabia not to “beg for security” from external powers. Alaeddin Boroujerdi said Turkish and Pakistani involvement would not weaken the Houthi group and could backfire on the partners.

Criticism has focused more on Pakistan, given its role as a mediator between Tehran and Washington. Lawmaker Ahmad Naderi argued that Pakistan’s participation means it should no longer be seen as a neutral mediator. Tabnak news warned that a Pakistani military presence in Saudi Arabia would threaten Iran’s security and could heighten sectarian tensions along the Iran-Pakistan border.

Iranian state media have framed the development as a Saudi-led war against Yemen’s population, with Tasnim warning that Turkey and Pakistan could become targets of attacks on their ships or territory if they join the conflict.