A prominent Saudi geopolitical analyst has stated that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia could activate its mutual defense pact with Pakistan if it decides to enter the ongoing war against Iran with full force. In a recent interview, researcher Salman al-Ansari suggested that Riyadh might lean on Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal as a “nuclear umbrella” should the conflict escalate further. This bilateral agreement, signed last year, mirrors the structure of NATO’s Article 5, stipulating that any aggression against one country is considered an aggression against both. As Saudi energy infrastructure and military bases have already faced Iranian drone and missile strikes, the potential for Pakistan’s involvement adds a significant layer of complexity to the regional crisis.
From my latest interview with @CBC 🇨🇦:
“Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 will activate its bilateral defense agreement with Pakistan 🇵🇰 if it enters a war with Iran 🇮🇷.” pic.twitter.com/EiQK38eeEJ
— Salman Al-Ansari | سلمان الأنصاري (@Salansar1) March 17, 2026
While Saudi Arabia has historically relied on Pakistan as a mediator, Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed he has already notified Tehran of the existing defense obligations. In response, Iran reportedly sought assurances that Saudi territory would not be used as a launchpad for offensive operations. Beyond military ties, Pakistan remains deeply connected to the Gulf for its energy security. Notably, a Pakistan-flagged vessel recently became the first to transit the blocked Strait of Hormuz with its tracking systems on, signaling a delicate diplomatic balancing act. Analysts warn that invoking this pact could see the fighting spread globally, though Pakistan continues to navigate its reliance on Gulf oil while attempting to maintain a diplomatic channel with its neighbor, Iran.
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