Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – September 17, 2025 – Pakistan and Saudi Arabia formalized a significant mutual defense agreement today in Riyadh, solidifying a security partnership that has spanned decades.
The accord, signed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, establishes that an attack against either nation will be considered an aggression against both. This pact institutionalizes the robust defense ties that have historically bound the two countries, with cooperation tracing back to the 1960s. Pakistan has historically provided crucial training and advisory support to the Saudi armed forces, a relationship further strengthened by a 1982 protocol agreement that facilitated substantial exchanges of military personnel and expertise.
The agreement signifies a formalization of this deep-rooted strategic alliance. Pakistan's Minister for Defence, Khawaja Asif, stated that the nation's nuclear capabilities would be available under the pact, a move interpreted by analysts as potentially extending a nuclear umbrella to Saudi Arabia. This aspect, combined with the pact's defensive posture, is viewed as a strategic signal amidst evolving regional security dynamics.
The timing of the agreement coincides with heightened regional tensions and follows recent events in Qatar, underscoring its strategic importance. Analysts suggest the pact reflects a broader trend among Gulf Arab states to re-evaluate their security arrangements and strengthen deterrence against various regional threats. This development is seen as a calculated step in Saudi Arabia's strategy to enhance its defense posture and ensure regional stability.
The agreement has drawn attention from international observers, including India, which has stated it is analyzing the implications for its national security and regional stability. The pact is viewed as a significant strategic shift, formalizing a powerful alliance that could influence regional security calculations and diplomatic maneuvering. The core objectives of the agreement include fostering joint defense production, enhancing mutual defense capabilities, and collectively ensuring peace and security across the region and globally.