Pakistan deployed 8,000 soldiers and a squadron of fighters to Saudi Arabia during the war with Iran, according to a new report.The deployment wasn’t previously disclosed and may create problems as Pakistan was serving as a neutral mediator in the conflict between Iran and the United States. Despite its mediating role since early in the war, three security officials and two government sources told Reuters that the deployment included a squadron of 16 advanced JF-17 fighters, 8,000 capable troops, and a Chinese HQ-9 air defense system. The force was described as combat-capable and intended to support Riyadh if it came under further attack.The full timeline of deployments was unclear, but the fighter squadron was deployed in early April. The fighters and equipment were operated by Pakistani personnel and financed by Saudi Arabia, though intended mainly for a training and supportive role.
The deployment came one year after the two countries signed a defense pact, the details of which haven’t been made public. A government source familiar with the agreement, speaking with the outlet, claimed it provides for up to 80,000 Pakistani troops to be deployed to the kingdom, while two security officials claimed it involved the deployment of Pakistani warships.
