ISLAMABAD: Saudi Arabia has rejected the reports from the Reuters on conducting multiple unpublicized air strikes on Iranian territory in retaliation for a series of Iranian attacks on the kingdom, according to an exclusive Reuters report.

As per the Reuters, the strikes, carried out by the Saudi Air Force in late March 2026, mark the first known direct Saudi military action on Iranian soil. Two Western officials and two Iranian officials briefed Reuters on the matter.

The operation came amid escalating regional conflict that intensified after US and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February 2026. Iran responded with over 105 missile and drone attacks on Saudi targets in a single week during late March, according to Saudi official tallies.

Saudi forces intercepted the majority of incoming projectiles, but some caused damage to bases and energy infrastructure. Following the Saudi strikes, direct Iranian attacks on the kingdom decreased significantly in early April.

Western officials said Riyadh communicated with Tehran after the operation, issuing warnings while maintaining diplomatic channels. This contributed to a partial de-escalation, with several later attacks traced to Iranian-backed groups operating from Iraq rather than direct launches from Iran.

The Reuters report, citing sources familiar with the matter, did not disclose specific targets hit inside Iran. However, it noted the strikes were limited in scope and aimed at deterring further aggression.

This development occurs against the backdrop of heightened tensions across the Gulf. The United Arab Emirates has separately conducted strikes inside Iran, as reported by other international outlets.

For Pakistan, the unfolding situation carries important implications. The country maintains strong ties with Saudi Arabia through economic cooperation, defence partnerships, and the large Pakistani workforce in the kingdom. Any major disruption in the Gulf directly affects remittance flows, energy imports, and regional stability.

Pakistan has consistently called for de-escalation in the Middle East. Officials in Islamabad have urged all parties to exercise restraint and resolve differences through dialogue.

According to data from the State Bank of Pakistan, remittances from Saudi Arabia form a substantial portion of the total $30 billion plus annual remittances received by the country. Any prolonged conflict risks affecting these inflows and oil prices, which impact Pakistan’s import bill.

The broader 2026 Iran-related conflict has already caused fluctuations in global energy markets. Brent crude prices rose sharply in March before stabilising somewhat after reported diplomatic efforts.

Military analysts note that Saudi Arabia possesses advanced fighter aircraft, including Eurofighter Typhoons and F-15 Eagles, with capabilities for precision strikes at range. The kingdom has significantly upgraded its air defence systems in recent years with support from Western partners.

Iran, meanwhile, relies on its ballistic missile programme and drone fleet for asymmetric responses. The reported Saudi action demonstrates a shift from purely defensive posture to limited offensive capability.

Regional observers say the covert strikes reflect Saudi Arabia’s determination to protect its territory and economic assets without triggering full-scale war. The kingdom has publicly reserved the right to respond while continuing diplomatic engagement.

The UAE’s reported parallel actions suggest coordination or similar threat perceptions among Gulf Cooperation Council members. Both countries have deepened security cooperation in recent years.

For South Asia, the conflict raises concerns about possible spillover effects. Pakistan shares borders with Iran and maintains balanced relations with both Tehran and Riyadh. Any escalation could complicate border management in Balochistan and affect the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project, which remains under discussion.

Economic analysts estimate that a sustained rise in oil prices above $100 per barrel could add pressure on Pakistan’s current account, already sensitive to energy costs. The country imported crude oil worth over $10 billion in recent fiscal years.

Security sources indicate that Pakistani missions in the Gulf region continue to monitor the situation closely. No immediate threat to Pakistani nationals has been reported, though advisory guidelines remain in place.

The reduction in direct Iranian strikes after Saudi action suggests a temporary deterrence effect. However, Iranian-backed militias retain capability to conduct attacks from Iraqi or Yemeni territories.

Diplomatic circles in Islamabad view the episode as part of a complex regional realignment. Saudi Arabia has expanded normalisation efforts with Israel while confronting Iranian influence, creating multiple overlapping tensions.

Future developments will likely depend on backchannel communications and international mediation efforts. The United States, China, and other powers have engaged in diplomatic outreach to prevent wider confrontation.

Analysts suggest that while direct Saudi-Iranian clashes have been limited so far, the risk of miscalculation remains high given the density of military assets and proxy networks in the region.

Pakistan’s position emphasises peaceful resolution and respect for sovereignty. As a major Muslim nation with stakes in Gulf stability, Islamabad is expected to continue quiet diplomatic efforts to support de-escalation.

The situation remains fluid, with potential for further developments in coming weeks as regional powers assess the outcomes of recent military and diplomatic moves.