The recent mutual defence agreement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan marks shift in West and South Asia’s security landscape. The pact declares that any aggression against one will be treated as aggression against both. This development comes amid risinrealignmentg tensions in the Persian Gulf and changing global alliances.
Background of Saudi-Pakistan Relations
Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have maintained a close partnership for decades. Saudi Arabia is the custodian of Islam’s two holiest mosques. Pakistan is the Islamic world’s only nuclear-armed state. Pakistan has trained Saudi military forces and received financial support from the kingdom, including assistance for its nuclear programme. The new agreement institutionalises this historic cooperation.
Context of the Agreement
The pact was announced shortly after Israel bombed Qatar, a key U.S. ally hosting America’s largest base in West Asia. This attack telld the fragile security environment in the region. Traditional U.S. security guarantees to Gulf monarchies are weakening as America shifts its focus away from West Asia. Saudi Arabia’s oil infrastructure was attacked in 2019 by Iranian allies, yet the U.S. response was muted. These events have pushed Saudi Arabia to diversify its security partnerships.
Impact on Regional Alliances
The Abraham Accords sought to align Arab monarchies with Israel against Iran. Four Arab countries joined, but Saudi Arabia remained hesitant. The October 2023 Hamas attack and Israel’s war in Gaza disrupted this process. Saudi Arabia’s pact with Pakistan signals a move away from exclusive reliance on the U.S. and Israel. It also shows Riyadh’s intent to hedge its bets amid rising Israeli militarism.
Implications for Pakistan
Pakistan gains a strategic partner amid Gulf uncertainties. The agreement may strengthen Pakistan’s position as a security provider in the Islamic world. It also secures much-needed financial support from Saudi Arabia. However, it is unclear if Pakistan’s nuclear umbrella extends to Saudi Arabia or if Saudi Arabia will respond immediately to threats against Pakistan.
Consequences for India and Regional Stability
India’s recent conflict with Pakistan and its pro-Israel tilt complicate its West Asia policy. Arab monarchies appear to be balancing relations, potentially sidelining Indian concerns. The agreement risks entangling Pakistan in West Asia’s complex crises and Saudi Arabia in South and Central Asian tensions. India must adapt quickly to this evolving security order. Pursuing a balanced approach that promotes regional stability is essential.
Future Security Dynamics
The pact may reshape power equations in West Asia. It challenges U.S. dominance and Israel’s growing influence. Gulf monarchies are exploring new alliances to counter threats from Iran and regional conflicts. This realignment could lead to increased military cooperation and strategic competition. The evolving scenario demands careful diplomacy from all parties involved.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of shifting U.S. foreign policy on security alliances in West Asia with suitable examples.
- Explain the strategic significance of nuclear weapons in regional security dynamics, citing the Saudi-Pakistan defence agreement.
- What are the challenges and opportunities for India in balancing its relations with Israel and Arab states in West Asia?
- With suitable examples, comment on the role of defence pacts in shaping geopolitical stability and risks of entrapment in regional conflicts.
