Saudi Arabia attempting to purchase Pakistani weapons for Syrian opposition

Saudi Arabia is allegedly engaged in talks with Pakistan to purchase anti-aircraft and anti-tank rockets for the Syrian opposition, reports AFP.

Anza, Pakistani made shoulder-launched anti-aircraft missiles, are of particular interest to the Saudis. They are attempting to acquire these arms, along with anti-tank rockets, and deliver them to rebel groups in hopes that this advanced weaponry will tip the balance and topple Assad.

Pakistan’s army chief of staff, General Rahell Sharif, recently traveled to Riyadh to meet with Crown Prince Salman bin Abdul Aziz, says an AFP source. The same source also revealed that Jordan will store the weapons before they are given to the rebels.

The United States has opposed arming the rebels with such weapons in the past due to fears that they could end up in the hands of al Qaeda affiliated groups. But Washington seems to be changing its tune as talks in Geneva continually fail.

The opposition has long requested anti-aircraft weaponry, stating that these weapons are the only way to defeat Assad and his superior air force.