On September 17, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan inked a significant security agreement stating that an attack on either nation is perceived as an attack on both. This deal strengthens Saudi Arabia's security with nuclear-armed Pakistan. However, given Saudi Arabia's longstanding tension with Iran, a pressing question arises: Would Pakistan join Saudi Arabia against Iran if a conflict erupted?
In Riyadh, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif solidified this agreement, reinforcing decades-old defense ties between the two countries. Key highlights include...
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Source: aajtak
Mutual Defense: An attack on one is an attack on both, prompting a joint response.
Nuclear Security: A Saudi official mentioned that it covers "all military means." Pakistan's nuclear arsenal could secure Saudi Arabia, especially against threats from Iran or Israel.
Economic Aid: Saudi Arabia granted Pakistan a $3 billion loan, boosting its economy.
Background: This deal followed Israel's attack on Qatar a week earlier, reducing Gulf nations' trust in American protection. Saudi Arabia sought U.S. guarantees but turned to Pakistan when those did not materialize.
According to reports by Al Jazeera and Reuters, the deal strengthens Saudi Arabia's anti-Iran policy. While Saudi Arabia asserts it's for regional peace, experts believe it targets Iran's nuclear program and Houthi rebels.
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The Sunni-Shia divide fuels tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia, with Saudi Arabia being largely Sunni and Iran predominantly Shia.
Main Issues...
Proxy Wars: While Saudi Arabia and Iran avoid direct confrontations, they engage in proxy battles in Yemen (Houthis vs. Saudi coalition), Syria, and Lebanon (Hezbollah). In 2016, Saudi Arabia severed diplomatic ties after executing an Iranian diplomat.
Nuclear Program: Saudi Arabia fears Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Though silent, Saudi Arabia has backed Israeli strikes on Iran.
Recent Tensions: In 2024, Iran launched drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities. Saudi Arabia sought help from the U.S. but is now looking to Pakistan.
CNN reports that Pakistan has often played a mediator role between Iran and Saudi Arabia. In 2016, Saudi Arabia requested Pakistani troops for the Yemen war, but Pakistan declined.
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Pakistan shares a 900 km border with Iran and faces common challenges in Balochistan (terrorism). Pakistan's strategy...
Mediation: Former Prime Minister Imran Khan attempted Iran-Saudi mediation, meeting the Iranian president in Tehran in 2019. In 2024, Iranian President Raisi visited Pakistan.
Economic Ties: Talks are ongoing about a gas pipeline from Iran (IP gasline). Trade currently stands at $2 billion.
Military Tensions: In January 2024, Iran struck Pakistan's Balochistan (targeting Jaish al-Adl), prompting a retaliatory strike by Pakistan, yet peace was swiftly restored.
According to Time magazine (2016), while Pakistan supports Saudi Arabia, it doesn't seek to antagonize Iran. With an economy struggling, Pakistan relies on Saudi financial aid but cannot afford a war with Iran.
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The biggest question remains: If Iran attacks Saudi Arabia, will Pakistan support Saudi Arabia as per the deal? However...
Low Probability: Pakistan has often strived to remain neutral, opting not to aid Saudi Arabia during the Yemen conflict in 2016. X Posts and Al Jazeera note that Pakistan considers Iran a brother.
Nuclear Threat: Could Pakistan’s nuclear weapons be used against Iran? Experts warn this could lead to mutual destruction. Pakistan's nuclear arsenal primarily targets India.
India's Perspective: India has expressed concerns regarding the deal. If Pakistan grows stronger, it poses a threat to India. Nonetheless, Pakistan aims to avoid getting entangled in a war with Iran.
Expert Opinions: According to the Atlantic Council (2025), Pakistan will likely maintain its relationship with Iran. Saudi Arabia is seen as a military for hire, but Pakistan will tread cautiously in any conflict. On X, users argue that while the deal poses a significant threat to Iran, Pakistan isn’t eager for a confrontation with Iran.
The Saudi-Pakistani deal could indeed alter the regional power balance, yet it is unlikely that Pakistan will wage war against Iran. Pakistan's policy has consistently balanced receiving financial support from Saudi Arabia while maintaining a cordial friendship with Iran. However, as concerns rise, Pakistan might assume the role of mediator again. Meanwhile, Iran remains vigilant, and India must also keep an eye on developments.
