Pakistan adopts wait and watch on Saudi counter terrorism alliance

Pakistan has said it will first review the Terms of Reference (ToRs) ​ of the Saudi Arabia-led Islamic Military Alliance against Terrorism (IMAT) before taking a decision to join it formally.

Keen to avoid any negative fallout from its participation in the initiative, especially with regard to its bilateral engagement with Iran, Pakistan has reportedly informed Riyadh that being a part of the 41-nation alliance hinges on it being solely dedicated and committed to combating terrorism.

The Express Tribune quoted Pakistan government sources, as saying that they are having second thoughts about joining the alliance after some statements from Saudi authorities suggested that the alliance could also be used to counter Iran.

Officials here are reportedly insisting that the sole purpose of the Saudi initiative must be to fight terrorism and extremism.

The ToRs is expected to be finalised during a meeting of defence ministers of the participating countries.