Published on, Sept. 23 -- September 23, 2025 2:46 AM

For Pakistan, the prospect of playing a role in the protection of Makkah and Madinah is not merely a matter of military cooperation. It is a profound spiritual privilege. These sacred cities are the heart of Islam, revered by more than a billion Muslims worldwide, and every Pakistani holds them close to their faith and identity.

To be entrusted with their security means recognition of Pakistan's loyalty, strength, and sacrifice. It signifies that the country's armed forces, among the largest and most experienced in the Muslim world, are seen as worthy guardians of places where millions of pilgrims gather each year. For ordinary Pakistanis, such a role is not just a duty but a source o...