In a significant geopolitical development, Pakistan has formally acknowledged that its nuclear capability could be extended to Saudi Arabia under a newly signed defence pact. Defence Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif said in an interview with Pakistan’s Geo TV that the country’s nuclear program “will be made available” to the kingdom if required.
The two countries signed the agreement on Wednesday, declaring that an attack on one would be treated as an attack on both. Asif described the deal as an “umbrella arrangement” aimed at ensuring joint defence against external aggression, though he clarified that no specific country was mentioned as a threat.
This marks the first time Islamabad has explicitly indicated the possibility of sharing its nuclear deterrence with Riyadh. Analysts suggest the move is significant, especially against the backdrop of heightened tensions in the Middle East following Israel’s recent strike in Qatar that killed six Hamas leaders.
Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have maintained close military and financial ties for decades. Riyadh’s financial support was instrumental in sustaining Pakistan’s nuclear program during years of international sanctions.
Currently, Pakistan is estimated to possess around 170 nuclear warheads, slightly fewer than India’s 172. Its Shaheen-3 ballistic missile, with a range of 2,750 km, is capable of reaching deep into the Middle East, including Israel.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar also confirmed that other nations have shown interest in joining similar security arrangements, suggesting the pact could pave the way for a wider regional alliance.
