The idea of a joint Arab security force has gained momentum after Israel’s strike in Doha, with Pakistan voicing support for the initiative. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said his country was ready to play its part in defending regional states while stressing Pakistan’s strong conventional military capabilities.
Pakistan’s Position
Dar made the remarks in an interview with Al Jazeera ahead of the emergency Arab-Islamic summit in Doha. He said the proposal deserved serious consideration and emphasized the importance of cooperation among Muslim countries.
“Why not? What’s wrong with that?” Dar asked when discussing the creation of a joint force. “They should have such a mechanism. According to their own capacity and strength, they should build a defense system.”
Dar highlighted that the purpose of such a force would be purely defensive, aimed at protecting regional states against aggressors and preserving peace in the Middle East.
Reaction to Israeli Strike
The comments came days after Israel carried out airstrikes in Doha on September 9. The strikes targeted Hamas leaders who were meeting to discuss a US-backed Gaza ceasefire proposal. The attack hit a residential neighborhood, drawing widespread international criticism.
Qatar has served as a central mediator in ceasefire and hostage talks between Israel and Hamas. It also hosts the Palestinian group’s political bureau. Israel’s decision to strike inside Qatari territory marked an escalation, alarming countries across the Arab and Muslim world.
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Call for Multilateral Cooperation
Dar said the strike underscored the urgent need for regional and international cooperation. He stressed the importance of strengthening multilateralism and reforming global institutions like the United Nations to ensure peace and fairness.
“It is vital to build collective strength,” Dar said. “Institutional reforms are necessary if we want peace for everyone. We cannot allow unilateral actions to dominate the global order.”
Role of Pakistan’s Military
Dar underlined Pakistan’s ability to support such a security initiative by pointing to its military strength. He described Pakistan’s army, air force, and navy as effective, disciplined, and battle-tested.
“Pakistan has a very large, very effective army, a highly capable air force, and a strong navy,” he said. “We will always discharge our duty toward the Muslim community.”
He clarified that Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal remained solely for deterrence, not for offensive use. The joint security force, he noted, would rely on conventional defense mechanisms to counter threats.
Past Military Experience
Dar pointed to Pakistan’s military standoff with India in May as evidence of the country’s readiness. He said the armed forces had proven their capability in defending the nation against external threats.
“Our recent history shows the strength of our armed forces,” he explained. “They are always prepared and capable of defending the country and supporting our allies.”
Deterrence Against Aggression
According to Dar, the proposed joint force would focus on stopping aggressors who threaten peace in the region. He did not name Israel directly in this part of the interview but referred to “the occupier” and to powers that refuse to listen to the international community.
He insisted that the goal was to prevent further destabilization, not to escalate conflicts. “This is not for offensive purposes,” he said. “It is to defend regional states and ensure peace.”
Pakistan’s Commitment to the Muslim World
Dar reiterated that Pakistan would stand with Arab and Muslim states in the face of external threats. He said cooperation was not only a strategic responsibility but also a moral duty.
“Pakistan will always discharge its duty toward the Muslim world,” he declared. “We cannot turn our back when our brothers face aggression.”
Israel, India, and Pakistan
When asked whether Israel had targeted Pakistan directly, Dar said Israel had historically supported India in its confrontations with Pakistan. He noted that despite this alignment, Israel had witnessed Pakistan’s resilience and military strength.
“Israel fully supported India in its war against Pakistan,” Dar remarked. “But they have seen the results.”
His comments suggested that Pakistan remains watchful of Israel’s regional actions, particularly in the context of its alliance with India.
Rising Urgency
The idea of a joint Arab security force is not new, but the Israeli strike on Doha has revived the debate. Many Arab leaders see a collective defense system as essential to protect states from sudden attacks and deter future escalation.
Pakistan’s vocal support adds weight to the discussions, especially given its sizable military and long experience in regional conflicts. The proposal will likely dominate conversations at the Arab-Islamic summit in Doha.
Looking Ahead
The future of the proposed force depends on consensus among Arab and Muslim states. Some may hesitate due to political or financial concerns, while others may push for immediate action.
Still, Dar’s strong backing signals that Pakistan is ready to contribute both politically and militarily. His remarks underline Islamabad’s long-standing position of solidarity with Arab nations while reaffirming its role as a major defense partner in the Muslim world.
As the summit unfolds, the idea of a joint Arab security force could move from a proposal to a structured plan, reshaping regional defense strategies in response to Israel’s strike in Qatar.
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