Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Saudi Arabia after Saudi authorities said their air defences intercepted a Houthi drone south of Makkah.

Saudi Arabia said the drone was destroyed on Tuesday evening before it entered the prohibited airspace over the holy city. Saudi officials described the incident as the second reported Houthi attempt to target Makkah, following a 2017 missile incident.

The Houthis have denied targeting Makkah or other Islamic holy sites.

In a post on X, Shehbaz Sharif condemned what he described as an attempted attack against the Holy Site of Makkah Al-Mukarramah.

He said Pakistan stood “shoulder to shoulder” with Saudi Arabia in protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Shehbaz Calls for Restraint

The prime minister praised the Royal Saudi Armed Forces for intercepting the drone.

He highlighted what he called their vigilance, courage and professionalism.

Shehbaz Sharif also urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint.

He warned against further escalation in a region already affected by prolonged conflict.

“Dialogue and diplomacy remain the only sustainable path towards peace,” he said.

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The prime minister also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the security and sanctity of the Haramain Sharifain.

His comments came as regional tensions continue to rise amid renewed Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and wider instability across the Middle East.

Pakistan Condemns Houthi Attacks on Saudi Arabia

Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, also condemned Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia.

Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting on Yemen, he warned that the escalation had brought the conflict to a dangerous stage.

Ahmad said attacks around Bab al-Mandab posed risks to freedom of navigation and international maritime commerce.

He also warned that continued attacks could affect global supply chains and energy security.

Pakistan called for an end to escalation and supported an inclusive, Yemeni-led political process under UN auspices.

Islamabad Supports Saudi Security

Ambassador Ahmad said Pakistan supports Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and security.

He also said Islamabad supports the kingdom’s right to take necessary measures to defend itself against threats.

Pakistan has also offered to continue diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions in the region.

The ambassador said Islamabad would support sincere efforts towards dialogue and a political settlement in Yemen.

He warned that renewed fighting could deepen the humanitarian crisis and increase suffering among Yemeni civilians.

Ishaq Dar Condemns Attempted Attack

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also condemned the reported incident.

In a post on X, Dar said the attempted attack violated Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

He said the incident also offended the religious sentiments of Muslims worldwide.

Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Saudi leadership and people.

He also stressed the importance of protecting the security and sanctity of the two holy mosques and ensuring the safety of pilgrims, citizens and residents.