Pakistan Signals Support for Joint Arab Security Force After Israeli Strikes on Qatar

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has voiced support for the creation of a joint Arab security force in response to rising regional tensions following Israel’s recent airstrikes on Qatar. Speaking to Al Jazeera ahead of an emergency Arab-Islamic summit in Doha, Dar said Islamabad was ready to contribute to such an initiative, stressing Pakistan’s military capabilities and longstanding defense experience.

His comments came after Israeli warplanes struck a residential area in Doha on September 9, targeting senior Hamas leaders who were meeting to discuss a US-backed ceasefire proposal for Gaza. Qatar has played a central role in ceasefire and hostage negotiations between Israel and Hamas, hosting the Palestinian group’s political bureau as part of its mediation efforts.

Confirming reports that Arab states were considering a collective defense mechanism, Dar welcomed the idea. “Why not? What’s wrong with that? They should [have such a force]. And according to their own capacity, their own strength, they should create some [defense] mechanism,” he said.

The Pakistani foreign minister stressed that such a security force would be defensive in nature. “The aim is not aggression but to defend the region and ensure peace by stopping the occupier — somebody who just doesn’t listen to anyone,” he said, without naming Israel directly.

Pakistan’s Military Role

Dar highlighted Pakistan’s conventional defense strength, pointing to its large standing army, advanced air force, and naval capabilities. He emphasized that while Pakistan is a nuclear power, its arsenal serves as a deterrent rather than an offensive tool. “Pakistan will stand with Arab states and discharge its duty toward the Muslim community,” he said.

Recalling Pakistan’s military standoff with India in May, Dar said his country’s forces had demonstrated their effectiveness during that confrontation. He also alleged that Israel supported India in its conflict against Pakistan but “saw the results” of the exchange.

Call for Multilateral Reforms

Beyond regional defense, Dar underlined the need for stronger multilateral frameworks to manage global conflicts. He urged institutional reforms at the United Nations, saying it was vital to reinforce collective diplomacy to ensure stability and security for all.

Dar’s remarks reflect Islamabad’s positioning as a potential partner in Middle Eastern security at a time when Arab states are exploring new defense arrangements in the face of escalating violence in Gaza and spillover tensions across the region.

As leaders prepare to gather in Doha for the emergency summit, the debate over a joint Arab security force is expected to take center stage, with Pakistan signaling it is ready to play a supportive role.