Pakistan has indicated that it may become involved in the ongoing conflict between Iran and other regional nations, referencing its defense agreement with Saudi Arabia. This comes in light of escalating tensions in the Gulf, particularly following Tehran’s retaliatory strikes against Saudi targets. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has conveyed to his Iranian counterpart a warning against attacking Saudi Arabia with missiles or drones. He emphasized this stance in a statement made earlier this week, marking a rare acknowledgment from Pakistan that its defense pact could extend to the current Iranian conflict.

US-Israel Strikes Escalate Conflict Across the Region

This armed conflict was significantly intensified after coordinated airstrikes by the United States and Israel last week. Following these strikes, Iran targeted several entities, including military facilities and diplomatic missions connected to the US. An Iranian drone recently struck the CIA headquarters located within the US embassy compound in Riyadh, underscoring the ongoing volatility. Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura oil refinery, a crucial facility for the kingdom, was attacked, disrupting operations and heightening security concerns.

Inside the Pakistan–Saudi NATO-Style Defense Pact

Dar pointed out that Saudi Arabia has experienced relatively fewer attacks compared to other nations in the region, attributing this to the protective framework established by the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia defense pact. He clarified that Iran had requested assurances that Saudi Arabia would not launch any operations from its territory against Iranian interests. The agreement, signed in September 2025, operates on a NATO-style mutual defense principle, stipulating that an act of aggression against one signatory is treated as an act against both.

Riyadh Reaffirms Right to Self-Defense

In response to the Iranian threats, Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its right to defend itself. A statement issued following a late-night Cabinet meeting chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman highlighted the nation’s commitment to counter any Iranian aggression, as drone interception efforts were intensified. This position reflects the kingdom’s effort to maintain regional stability amid a series of provocative actions.

Domestic Fallout: Sectarian Strains and Violent Protests in Pakistan

For Pakistan, the implications of potentially deploying its military forces in support of its Saudi ally are complex and fraught with risks. The country is home to a substantial Shia population of approximately 40 million, many of whom support Iran. The relationship with its neighbor Iran is further complicated by recent domestic unrest following the US-Israel strikes that led to the death of key Iranian leadership figures. Subsequent protests within Pakistan have turned violent, resulting in casualties among civilians, with at least 35 reported deaths during the unrest.

A Two-Front Security Challenge for Islamabad

Moreover, Pakistan is currently engaged in a strained conflict with the Taliban along its border with Afghanistan. Given these circumstances, invoking the defense pact could complicate Pakistan’s already precarious security situation. It faces a challenging dilemma, as actively participating in the conflict against Iran could exacerbate internal and external pressures. The prospect of being involved in a two-front conflict poses significant concerns for the Pakistani government.

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