By The Tribune International Staff
The landmark defence agreement signed between a country in South Asia and Saudi Arabia has unsettled New Delhi, which fears the pact could alter regional security dynamics. While Saudi officials insist it only institutionalises historic ties, Indian analysts warn it may embolden that country, provide nuclear “insurance” to Riyadh, and reshape power alignments in South Asia and the Gulf
Pakistan plays a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of security in South Asia.
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Ten Major Points:
Pakistan’s Role in Regional Security
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The Pact – Signed in Riyadh on 17 September 2025 by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the “strategic mutual defence agreement” commits both nations to consider aggression against one as aggression against both.
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India’s Concerns – New Delhi sees the pact as a direct threat to its security, given ongoing hostility with its neighbor, including a brief four-day conflict earlier this year.
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Strategic Signal – Analysts argue the deal reflects not Pakistan’s strength but Saudi Arabia’s ambition to diversify its security partners, gain manpower support, and leverage Pakistan’s nuclear capability.
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Indian Analysts’ Warnings – Former Indian foreign secretary Kanwal Sibal called it a “grave misstep” by Riyadh, potentially destabilising the region and endangering India’s security.
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Delhi’s Official Response – India has been cautious, saying it will “study the implications” of the pact while expressing hope that Saudi Arabia considers “mutual interests and sensitivities.”
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Longstanding Ties – Saudi military cooperation with Pakistan dates back to the 1960s, including troop deployments, assistance during the 1979 Mecca siege, and leadership of the Saudi-led anti-ISIS coalition by a retired general in 2017.
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Saudi Motivation – Riyadh’s growing doubts about US protection and its rivalry with Iran pushed it to broaden alliances. Recent Israeli actions have reinforced Saudi fears about relying solely on Washington.
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Economic Angle – Despite defence commitments to Pakistan, Saudi Arabia remains heavily invested in India as its second-largest trading partner and a key buyer of oil, complicating Riyadh’s balancing act.
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Regional Implications – Experts warn of the possibility of an “Islamic Nato”-like bloc, potentially complicating India’s Look West strategy, trade, and investment corridors in the Gulf.
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Pakistan’s Gains – The pact boosts Pakistan’s regional standing by adding Saudi Arabia to its network of patrons alongside China and Turkey, strengthening its hand against India diplomatically and militarily..
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