By Ambassador Masood Khan (Former Diplomat) courtesy Radio Pakistan
The Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia has enhanced security for both countries at a critical time. Following the Doha strikes, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested further military action in the region, with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye mentioned as potential targets. Pakistan, too, was referenced twice in these statements, highlighting Israel’s increasingly aggressive posture.
In this context, the agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is timely and necessary. It strengthens deterrence, particularly for the protection of the Harmain al-Sharifeen, which is a matter of great honor for Pakistan. The pact also sends a clear message to India, whose forces suffered a significant defeat in May 2025. Any future aggression against Pakistan will now face a stronger, united response.
This agreement not only enhances the security of Saudi Arabia—making a repeat of Doha-style attacks far less likely—but also sets the stage for broader unity within the Muslim world. Unlike NATO or similar alliances, there has never been a joint defense mechanism among OIC, Arab League, or GCC members. With Saudi Arabia’s leadership role in the Gulf, this step provides greater security for the entire region.
Brigadier (R) Waqar Hassan (Defense Analyst)
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have shared close and fraternal relations since 1951, steadily strengthening their partnership over decades. The recent agreement, however, represents a major shift driven by the rapidly changing security environment.
Muslim countries currently face threats from both Israel and India. The attacks on Pakistan, Iran, and most recently Qatar were part of the same pattern of aggression. Pakistan’s decisive response to India restored balance and demonstrated its capability as a regional security provider.
The Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement expands Pakistan’s strategic reach from the Bay of Bengal to the Mediterranean Sea. The pact envisions joint task forces, combined exercises, and a shared commitment to regional peace. By combining Pakistan’s military strength with Saudi Arabia’s economic power, this cooperation provides new stability in South Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.
This development is also seen as the first step toward greater unity within the Muslim world. If major Muslim military powers—including Pakistan, Türkiye, Indonesia, Egypt, Iran, and Saudi Arabia—work together, they can play a constructive role in ensuring global peace and security. For Pakistan, taking responsibility for the protection of Harmain al-Sharifeen is both an honor and a recognition of its role as a confident leader in the Muslim world.
About Ambassador Masood Khan
Ambassador Masood Khan is a seasoned Pakistani diplomat with decades of service in international relations. He has served as Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York and Geneva, as well as Ambassador to China. Known for his expertise in security, diplomacy, and strategic affairs, he continues to contribute thought leadership on regional and global issues.
