The Ministry of Information has firmly rejected allegations suggesting that Pakistani jets were damaged during a recent Houthi missile attack on a Saudi military base, labeling these claims as “absolutely fake.”
In a statement shared through its fact-checking account on X, the ministry targeted social media narratives fueled by Indian sources that falsely reported damage to three PAF JF-17 aircraft at King Abdulaziz Air Base in Saudi Arabia, asserting that these incidents prompted an evacuation of the jets.
The ministry also included an image of a post from one of the accounts spreading this misinformation, clearly marked with the word “fake.” It emphasized, “This is absolute fake. No credible or official sources have reported any damage to PAF JF-17s.”
Additionally, the ministry condemned the intentional spread of false information regarding the supposed damage and evacuation of PAF aircraft, characterizing it as blatant propaganda aimed at deceiving the public as part of a broader Hindutva agenda.
Context of Pakistani Deployment in Saudi Arabia
Pakistani military forces were stationed at the King Abdulaziz Air Base in Dhahran as part of a defense cooperation agreement that was established between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia last year. This deployment was intended to enhance the security of the kingdom by fostering military collaboration.
The Saudi defense ministry explained at the time that the contingent included both fighter and support aircraft from the Pakistan Air Force, aimed at improving joint military coordination and operational readiness between the two nations’ armed forces.
Recent Houthi Attacks Against Saudi Arabia
In recent developments, the Houthis have launched several attacks on Saudi territories, coinciding with the escalating U.S.-Israeli conflict involving Iran. Just recently, they targeted the King Khalid Air Base located in Khamis Mushait, which is situated in the southern region of Saudi Arabia. The assault damaged hangars, radar systems, runways, and munition storage facilities.
Following these attacks, Saudi officials issued emergency alerts in Khamis Mushait and three other southern regions. However, it is important to note that there have been no reports of any assaults on the King Abdulaziz Air Base thus far, maintaining its operational integrity.
