Pakistan-Saudi Defence Pact Signals Regional Security Shift

The Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is reshaping the regional security landscape. While rooted in bilateral cooperation, the pact may expand to include other Muslim states, creating a collective defence framework at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and South Asia. Unlike past Cold War-era alliances such as Seato and Cento, where Pakistan was a junior partner, this agreement reflects the country’s stronger military profile. Pakistan’s combat experience, advanced defence capabilities, and its recent confrontation with India have underscored its ability to defend against larger adversaries. Saudi Arabia, particularly after Israel’s reckless strike on Qatar, views this pact as timely and essential. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has hinted that the “doors are not closed” for other Muslim states to join. A repurposed Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition could evolve into a NATO-style alliance, enhancing sovereignty and deterring aggressors. However, speculation about Pakistan’s nuclear assets must be addressed. Officials should reaffirm that Pakistan’s nuclear weapons remain solely a deterrent for self-defence. Instead, Muslim states should focus on pooling conventional military resources to counter shared threats and ensure regional stability.