Overview

• Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said the agreement carries mutual-assistance provisions and will expand the presence of Pakistani forces stationed in Saudi Arabia.
• Pakistan’s Foreign Office described the accord as purely defensive and not directed at any third country, as Asif dismissed Indian objections as expected.
• The Pakistan Airports Authority issued a new NOTAM extending the closure of Pakistani airspace to Indian aircraft until October 23.
• Government figures and religious leaders publicly praised the pact, with clerics framing Pakistan’s role as an honor tied to the protection of the Haramayn.
• Officials cautioned that some actors are misrepresenting the terms of the agreement for political ends and urged against speculation.