Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Mutual Defence Pact: A Historic Shift in Muslim World Security

The mutual defence agreement signed between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia marks a historic milestone in the decades-old relationship between the two nations. While Pakistan has long contributed to the security of Islam’s holy sites, this is the first time the commitment has been formalised through a binding treaty. A key feature of the pact is that an attack on either country will be considered an attack on both, significantly deepening security cooperation. Pakistan, with its advanced defence technology, and Saudi Arabia, with vast financial resources, complement one another. To meet its expanded obligations, Pakistan has already increased its order of Chinese warships from 40 to 100 — a step likely to be financially supported by Riyadh. Behind the scenes, former Prime Minister Mian Nawaz Sharif is seen as playing a pivotal role in this development, owing to his close and cordial ties with the Saudi leadership. His visit to London just days before the agreement has further fueled speculation about his influence in shaping this landmark accord. Many observers believe this pact could inspire other Muslim nations to unite under a collective defence framework, moving closer to Allama Iqbal’s vision of Muslim solidarity from the Nile to Kashgar.