Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan
The announcement of a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia has raised concerns in New Delhi. The agreement includes a clause stating that "any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both," which has implications for India-Saudi relations.
Background Context
- The Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025 led to significant military exchanges between India and Pakistan.
- India has since attempted to diplomatically isolate Pakistan, a strategy that has not fully succeeded.
- The deal marks a return to close ties between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan after strained relations in the past.
Geopolitical Implications
- The agreement is part of a broader geopolitical recalibration in West Asia following recent conflicts, such as the Hamas attack on Israel in 2023.
- Saudi Arabia's interest in Pakistan's military experience, especially with nuclear capabilities, is a key factor.
- Reports suggest that the pact has been in development for three years, with India aware of its progress.
Saudi-Pakistan Relationship
- Historically, Saudi Arabia has viewed Pakistan's military as a stabilizing force for its domestic and regional security.
- Pakistan's nuclear program is seen as a potential resource for Saudi Arabia under this defense pact.
Challenges for India
- The Saudi-Pakistan deal highlights the limits of India's outreach and influence in West Asia.
- India aims for strategic autonomy and multipolarity, similar to Saudi Arabia's aspirations, posing potential conflicts of interest.
- The concept of the 'Islamic bomb' presents a geopolitical challenge, reminding India to reassess its strategic calculus.
Conclusion
The agreement exemplifies how Pakistan, specifically its Army, leverages global and regional disruptions to its advantage. The reshaping of global power dynamics provides a critical moment for India to recalibrate its strategies to avoid losing influence on the international stage.