Any Attack on One, Attack on Both: Pak-Saudi Pact

News Desk

Riyadh: In a historic development, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Wednesday signed a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement, pledging to treat any attack on one country as aggression against both.

The pact was formalised during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s state visit to Riyadh, where he was received by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman at Al-Yamamah Palace.

According to the joint statement, the accord builds on nearly eight decades of partnership and aims to bolster defence cooperation, enhance bilateral security ties, and contribute to regional and global peace. Crucially, it carries a binding clause declaring that aggression against either nation will be considered aggression against both.

The signing comes amid escalating regional tensions, days after Israel launched a strike towards Qatar targeting Hamas leaders in Doha, sparking outrage across the Muslim world.

Experts have hailed the agreement as “historic and unprecedented,” noting its significance for South Asia and the wider Islamic world. Analysts said the timing underlines Saudi Arabia’s trust in Pakistan as its most capable and reliable partner in safeguarding sovereignty and stability amid rising threats.

Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed gratitude for the warm welcome, extending best wishes to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud and the crown prince. Saudi leadership reciprocated with prayers for Pakistan’s prosperity.

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb were among the delegation accompanying the premier.

The visit was marked by a ceremonial welcome, with Royal Saudi Air Force F-15 jets escorting the prime minister’s aircraft, a 21-gun salute on arrival, and Pakistani flags displayed across Riyadh.