A fast-spreading rumor on social media and some news outlets suggests that Pakistan may have once again leaked its nuclear secrets, enabling Saudi Arabia to build a bomb. People recall the infamous Abdul Qadir Khan case as they speculate Pakistan's involvement with Saudi Arabia post-North Korea. But what's the reality?
Does Saudi Arabia Have Nuclear Weapons?
No. To date, no credible reports or international organizations, like the IAEA or U.S. intelligence agencies, have verified any possession of nuclear weapons by Saudi Arabia. The kingdom has repeatedly stated its disinterest in such arms. As a signatory of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), it cannot legally pursue them.
Recently (2025-2026), Saudi Arabia has engaged in civil nuclear cooperation with the USA, focusing on nuclear energy for electricity. In November 2025, Saudi Arabia and the USA formed a civil nuclear agreement. While there are plans for uranium enrichment, they are strictly for energy, not weapons.
Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has claimed that if Iran pursues nuclear weapons, Saudi Arabia would follow suit, although no such actions have transpired thus far.
Source: aajtak
A Historical View: Abdul Qadir Khan and North Korea
The world hasn't forgotten Abdul Qadir Khan, the architect of Pakistan's nuclear program. In 2004, it was unveiled that Khan operated a covert network, selling nuclear technology to North Korea, Iran, and Libya. He faced house arrest for his actions. North Korea used this aid to advance its nuclear agenda.
Rumors swirled about Saudi Arabia funding Pakistan's nuclear ambitions in exchange for bombs during the 1970s and 80s. In 2013, BBC reported the possibility of Saudi Arabia acquiring bombs 'on order' from Pakistan. Yet, no evidence surfaced proving Khan transferred technology or any bombs were handed over to Saudi Arabia.
Rumors: Has Pakistan Leaked Secrets Again?
In 2025, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement (SMDA), meaning...
If one nation is attacked, the other will provide assistance.
Both nations view each other's security as their own.
Post-agreement, both Pakistani and Saudi officials made statements implying inclusion of all military means. Pakistan's defense minister, Khawaja Asif, stated that if needed, Pakistan's nuclear capabilities would be available to Saudi Arabia, sparking rumors of a nuclear umbrella provided by Pakistan.
Source: aajtak
The Truth Is...
The agreement does not explicitly mention nuclear weapons.
Experts suggest it serves as signaling – the countries wish to project strength.
No proof exists that Pakistan leaked technology or assisted in bomb-making.
Saudi Arabia consistently maintains it does not desire nuclear weapons (at least for now).
This agreement primarily concerns conventional military aid, involving troops and weapons. Saudi Arabia is procuring ballistic missiles from China, but they are not nuclear-armed.
Saudi Arabia's Nuclear Aspiration: Why?
Saudi Arabia perceives threats from neighbors like Iran and Israel.
If Iran develops a bomb, Saudi Arabia would likely seek its own.
Currently, its focus remains on civil nuclear energy, bolstered by deals with the USA.
More Myth Than Reality
Pakistan has not recently leaked nuclear secrets to Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia has not constructed a nuclear bomb. The old rumors (Khan network, funding) persist, but new evidence is absent. The 2025 defense pact is significant yet does not involve nuclear transfers. So, for now, these are largely exaggerated speculations.
