Pakistan has agreed to deploy more military forces in Saudi Arabia without a parliamentary vote. This decision comes as militarization under the command of Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff, has dominated the country's foreign policy.
Military Agreement with Saudi Arabia and Turkey
This military agreement, signed in August between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, has been implemented for the first time. This action is in response to the increasing attacks by the Yemenis, who are supported by Iran. Last year's legal changes appointed Asim Munir as the commander of all military forces until 2030 and granted him immunity from legal prosecution.
Increasing Military Power in Foreign Policy
Analysts believe that this decision reflects the growing military power within Pakistan, where the party of former Prime Minister Imran Khan has been criticizing the military's dominance over the country's policies. Given that the Pakistani parliament had previously voted against the deployment of troops, the situation has changed this time.
The Pakistani Ministry of Information has stated that this cooperation has "gone through all necessary governmental stages" but has not provided details of cabinet or parliamentary participation, introducing the matter as "an issue of operational confidentiality." It remains unclear whether Pakistani forces will participate in operations against the Yemenis, as this involvement could affect relations with Tehran.
Following an emergency meeting in Riyadh attended by Asim Munir along with Saudi and Turkish officials, the three countries condemned attacks on Mecca and Medina and emphasized the need to provide agreed-upon forces and military capabilities. However, no information has been provided regarding the number of troops, missions, or costs.
These developments come as the ruling parties in Pakistan, including the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and the Pakistan People's Party, have not responded to requests for comments on this matter. Analysts believe that the dependence of foreign partners on the Pakistani military could strengthen its power internally, while the need to create balance in this system is clearly felt.
