Saudi Arabia and Pakistan Sign Mutual Defense Agreement
On September 17, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif finalized a mutual defense agreement at Al Yamamah Palace in Riyadh, signaling a significant shift in regional dynamics, reports 24brussels.
The agreement stipulates that an attack on one nation will be considered an assault on the other, formalizing a partnership that has been the subject of speculation for years. This development poses challenges not only to Middle Eastern stability but also to the influence of the United States in the region, changing the strategic landscape of both the Middle East and South Asia.
Historically, Saudi Arabia has been one of America’s closest allies, investing heavily in U.S. military assets—approximately $80 billion in military expenditure last year. However, increasing doubts about U.S. reliability have emerged. The recent $142 billion arms deal with Saudi Arabia under the Trump administration has failed to quell anxieties regarding America’s uncertain commitments in light of recent geopolitical events.
Israel’s recent strike on Doha during negotiation talks with Hamas highlighted the limits of American deterrence. Gulf nations, who rely on U.S. military presence in the region, are beginning to question the viability of Washington’s assurances, particularly in light of changing concerns over regional security.
In this evolving context, Pakistan steps into a pivotal role not as a subordinate ally, but as a strategic counterbalance. The nation possesses nuclear capabilities primarily aimed at India, but this defense pact may influence its regional deterrent posture. The agreement fosters enhanced military cooperation between the two nations, including joint exercises and intelligence sharing, building on a history of collaboration during international crises.
“There is nothing inherently alarmist about the Pakistan-Saudi mutual defense arrangement when viewed with historical and strategic context,”
comments Christopher Clary, a specialist in South Asian affairs, emphasizing that the pact underscores unity against shared threats instead of inciting new conflicts.
The implications of the Saudi-Pakistan partnership extend to Iran, presenting both opportunities and challenges. Pakistan’s connections with Iran and Saudi Arabia position it as a potential mediator amid escalating tensions, particularly surrounding Israel’s recent aggression. However, Tehran may perceive this alliance as a threat, complicating an already delicate balance in regional relationships.
Saudi Arabia has shown tentative signs of reconciling with Iran, mediated by Chinese diplomacy in 2023, which may accelerate as Riyadh diversifies its strategic partnerships beyond historic American alliances. The engagement with Iran could be beneficial, especially given shared apprehensions regarding escalating hostilities from Israel.
This recent development has generated concern in India, which has historically regarded Pakistan through a security lens. With Saudi backing, Pakistan’s defense posture gains new significance, potentially altering the dynamics of Indo-Pakistani relations. Indian officials have expressed unease over possible consequences for national security and regional stability, worrying it could lead to increased nuclear proliferation or heightened conflict.
As New Delhi recalibrates its regional strategy, there could be repercussions for its partnerships, notably within the Quad group that includes the United States, Japan, and Australia, as well as deeper ties with Israel.
The broader implications reflect a critical reassessment of U.S. influence as traditional allies explore alternative partnerships. The 2020 Abraham Accords, aimed at normalizing relations among Arab states and Israel, now seem increasingly fragile as Saudi interests evolve in the context of ongoing humanitarian crises, particularly in Gaza.
This defense agreement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan illustrates the shifting paradigms in global alliances, reflecting a disillusionment with America’s previous dominance in shaping Middle Eastern security. Both nations are now seeking greater autonomy, grounded in mutual dependence amid heightened uncertainty. Much remains to be seen regarding how these geopolitical realignments will affect various conflicts, from Yemen to Kashmir, and the global response, particularly from the United States, which must adapt to a world in flux.
