The Saudi Arabia-Pakistan mutual defence pact formalises decades of informal military cooperation. Signed in 2025, it marks a new phase in Gulf security amid rising regional tensions. The agreement comes days after Israel’s bombing of Qatar and growing doubts over U.S. security guarantees in West Asia. Saudi Arabia is diversifying its alliances as America retrenches and Iran-backed forces expand their influence. Pakistan, facing economic challenges but rich in military manpower, is positioning itself as a key security provider in the Gulf.
Terms of the Defence Agreement
The pact declares that aggression against one country is aggression against both. It commits Saudi Arabia and Pakistan to collective defence. The agreement establishes permanent coordination mechanisms such as a joint military committee, intelligence sharing, and expanded training programmes. Pakistan has long stationed troops in Saudi Arabia, but this treaty formalises the partnership. Saudi financial support reportedly aided Pakistan’s nuclear programme. While the treaty does not explicitly mention nuclear sharing, Pakistani officials have hinted at possible Saudi access to nuclear capabilities.
Timing and Strategic Context
Talks lasted over a year but the pact’s announcement after Israel’s attack on Qatar is . Qatar hosts the largest U.S. military base in West Asia. The attack exposed vulnerabilities in Gulf security and Washington’s reluctance to intervene. Saudi Arabia’s reliance on U.S. protection appears uncertain. The 2019 Iranian missile attacks on Saudi oil facilities also revealed limits of American support. The Gaza war and Houthi missile strikes further complicate Saudi security. The pact reflects Riyadh’s intent to hedge against these threats by deepening ties with Pakistan.
West Asia’s Changing Security Landscape
The U.S. had sought to normalise Israel-Gulf relations through the Abraham Accords. However, Israel’s aggressive actions in Gaza, Syria, Lebanon, Yemen, and Qatar alarmed Arab states. Riyadh now demands Israeli commitment to a Palestinian state on 1967 borders before normalisation. Israel rejects this, stalling the accords’ expansion. Saudi Arabia’s pact with Pakistan signals a shift from sole reliance on the U.S. and Israel. It diversifies alliances amid growing regional instability. The deal carries risks for both countries, potentially drawing Pakistan into Gulf conflicts and Saudi Arabia into South Asian tensions.
Implications for India
India faces new challenges as Saudi Arabia strengthens ties with Pakistan. India has invested heavily in Saudi relations, relying on the kingdom for energy, trade, and diaspora security. India also maintains strong ties with Israel. The stalled Saudi-Israel normalisation and Saudi-Pakistan pact complicate India’s West Asia strategy. Riyadh’s pro-Pakistan tilt contrasts with India’s pro-Israel stance. As Gulf states diversify alliances, India’s influence may wane. India must balance deepening Saudi ties with engagement across the Gulf, including Iran. Stability and balance remain critical to India’s energy security and regional interests.
Pakistan’s Role and Motivations
Pakistan gains financial support and regional influence through the pact. Its large military and Islamic identity appeal to Saudi Arabia amid Gulf insecurities. Pakistan’s experience in security services to the kingdom strengthens the partnership. However, the deal risks entangling Pakistan in Gulf rivalries and conflicts. It also places Pakistan at the centre of shifting power dynamics between the U.S., Iran, Israel, and Gulf monarchies.
US Retrenchment and Regional Realignments
The U.S. strategic pivot to East Asia reduces its engagement in West Asia. Gulf countries perceive diminished American reliability. Saudi Arabia’s pact with Pakistan reflects this reality. Regional powers are recalibrating security arrangements to protect their interests. The pact is part of broader efforts by Gulf states to diversify defence partnerships amid growing uncertainties.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of U.S. retrenchment on security dynamics in West Asia with suitable examples.
- Explain the strategic importance of mutual defence pacts in maintaining regional stability in conflict-prone areas.
- What are the challenges and opportunities for India in balancing its relations with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan in the current geopolitical scenario?
- With suitable examples, comment on the role of non-state actors like the Houthis in altering traditional state security paradigms in West Asia.
