Pakistani Army Chief Praises Saudi Arabia’s Custodianship of Holy Mosques | Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Ties

Islamabad, Pakistan – Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, affirmed the country’s commitment to the defense of Saudi Arabia’s holy mosques, stating that God had chosen Saudis to be their custodians. The remarks, made public on Wednesday, March 20, 2026, underscore a long-standing security relationship between the two nations.

“God Almighty has chosen the Saudis to be the custodians of the Two Holy Mosques,” General Munir said, according to statements reported by multiple news outlets including Ayda News and Al Siasi. He further emphasized the elevated status of this role, describing it as a distinction bestowed by God. “We in Pakistan, our blood and souls are dedicated to the Two Holy Mosques,” he added.

The Pakistani army chief’s statement comes amid a period of regional diplomatic activity. He also highlighted the unifying role of faith, stating, “There is no god but Allah, which unites Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.” General Munir affirmed that defending the holy sites is both a duty and a great honor for Pakistan.

The sentiment expressed by General Munir was echoed by a recent event where the Saudi Minister of Defense, Prince Khalid bin Salman, presented the Order of King Abdulaziz to General Munir. The award, conferred on behalf of King Salman, recognizes the strong ties between the two countries and the Pakistani army chief’s contributions to bilateral relations, according to Al Riyadh newspaper.

The statements from the Pakistani army chief reinforce a publicly stated position of commitment to Saudi security. The precise nature of any potential defense arrangements remains unaddressed, and no further details regarding specific security protocols or joint exercises have been released.