Military consultations are underway between Islamabad and Riyadh following Iranian drone and missile strikes on Saudi territory, highlighting the complex position Pakistan must navigate as regional tensions escalate and impact Gulf state security.
A Delicate Balance
Following a meeting between the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Saudi Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman, a statement released by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) revealed discussions regarding measures to halt the Iranian attacks within the framework of the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
While the Pakistani statement acknowledged the gravity of the situation and signaled solidarity with Riyadh, it notably differed in tone from the Saudi statement, which directly addressed the Iranian attacks and the need to stop them. Pakistan’s response immediately called for restraint and prudence, expressing hope that “brotherly country Iran” would avoid miscalculation.
Diplomatic Calibration
This careful phrasing reflects Pakistan’s longstanding diplomatic approach to avoid entanglement in regional rivalries, particularly given its sensitive border with Iran and domestic considerations. Yet, Islamabad also recognizes the strategic importance of its relationship with Saudi Arabia, which includes extensive historical military cooperation.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar disclosed that he reminded Tehran of Pakistan’s SMDA with the Kingdom following the start of retaliatory strikes. He indicated that Iranian officials sought assurances from Saudi Arabia, which he was able to convey. Despite this, Iran has continued strikes against US infrastructure in Saudi Arabia.
The consultations taking place at the security level, within the framework of the SMDA, do not necessarily imply direct Pakistani military involvement, but indicate activation of the existing defence architecture for coordination and assessment. The specifics of the SMDA remain undisclosed, raising questions about whether it covers attacks on Saudi Arabia or third-party sites on Saudi soil.
Looking Ahead
Pakistan’s current approach aims to combine reassurance to Saudi Arabia with caution towards Iran, seeking solidarity without escalation. If attacks on Saudi territory intensify or involve additional actors, pressure on Pakistan to clarify its position is likely to increase. The future of the Pakistan-Saudi defence pact will likely depend on the actions of Washington and Tehran.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the recent consultations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia?
Iranian drone and missile strikes on Saudi territory prompted the military consultations between Islamabad and Riyadh.
How did Pakistan’s statement differ from Saudi Arabia’s statement regarding the attacks?
The Pakistani statement called for restraint and prudence, while the Saudi statement plainly spoke of Iranian attacks and the need to halt them.
What is the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA)?
The SMDA is a mutual defence agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, formalized last September, though details of the agreement are not publicly available.
As regional tensions continue to rise, how will Pakistan balance its strategic partnerships and navigate the evolving security landscape?
