Reuters reported, citing a Pakistani official, that between 30,000 and 40,000 Pakistani troops have been deployed in Saudi Arabia to help defend the country’s land borders and counter drone and missile attacks by Yemen’s Ansarullah movement.
According to this report, Pakistani forces have entered Saudi Arabia at several stages over the past year and after the recent escalation of the conflict; however, Islamabad has not yet made a decision to send troops to Yemen and participate directly in combat operations.
Reuters also reported, citing regional and Western officials, that Saudi Arabia is considering options for operations against Ansar Allah, including securing the Red Sea shipping route and operations on multiple fronts.
The report adds that in addition to sending troops and military equipment, Pakistan has also supported Saudi Arabia and last month sent four cargo planes carrying air defense equipment, light artillery, drones, and anti-drone systems to Aden.
Reuters, citing several Pakistani, Saudi and Western officials, said that Pakistani military advisers were also present alongside Saudi forces. Details of the possible Saudi operation and the role of Pakistani forces have not been independently confirmed.
