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Pakistan Says Nuclear Shield May Extend to Saudi Arabia
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif has said that the country’s nuclear capabilities “will be made available” to Saudi Arabia under a newly signed Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement. He explained this could happen if needed, under terms of the pact.
What the Pact Covers
The defense agreement, signed on September 17, 2025, declares that any aggression against either Pakistan or Saudi Arabia will be considered aggression against both. Asif emphasized the agreement is defensive in nature and aimed at joint deterrence, rather than offence.
Clarifications & Cautions
Despite Asif’s remarks about nuclear availability, Pakistani officials later clarified that nuclear weapons are “not on the radar” in terms of sharing or deployment under this pact. Analysts warn that Asif’s statement could be symbolic and lacks clarity on what “making available” actually means — whether it refers to operational support, deterrence posture, or something else.
Regional Reactions
India has expressed concern, urging Saudi Arabia to respect “sensitivities” following the defense pact. Observers see the pact as signalling a shift in regional security arrangements, given Pakistan is one of the few nuclear-armed Muslim-majority countries.
Implications
If indeed the nuclear deterrence is extended, it may affect strategic stability in the Middle East. It has potential implications for neighbors and rivals. However, there is no public detail yet about how or when this nuclear capability could be utilised under the pact.
