International
oi-Swastika Sruti
Pakistan has sent fighter jets and military personnel to Saudi Arabia under a mutual defence agreement, the Saudi defence ministry announced on Saturday.
Pakistan has sent fighter jets and military personnel to Saudi Arabia under a mutual defence agreement following Iran-linked attacks, while simultaneously hosting peace talks in Islamabad between US and Iranian delegations aimed at regional de-escalation.
The move comes at a time of rising tensions in the Middle East and ongoing efforts to prevent further escalation of conflict.
Why Pakistan Sent Military Support
The deployment follows recent attacks linked to Iran that targeted parts of Saudi Arabia, damaging key energy infrastructure and causing casualties. In response, Pakistan has stepped in to support the kingdom’s security.
Pakistani combat and support aircraft have reportedly arrived at King Abdulaziz Air Base in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province. According to officials, the aim is to strengthen joint defence and improve coordination between the two countries.
A Strong Defence Partnership
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have shared close military and strategic ties for many years. In September 2025, both countries signed a mutual defence agreement that made their partnership even stronger.
Under this agreement:
- Any attack on one country is treated as an attack on both
- Both sides are expected to support each other in times of crisis
Pakistan has long provided military training and advisory support to Saudi forces, while Saudi Arabia has often helped Pakistan during economic difficulties.
Economic Support from Saudi Arabia
The strong relationship between the two nations is not limited to defence. Saudi Arabia has also played an important role in supporting Pakistan’s economy.
Recently, Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan visited Pakistan to show continued economic support. In the past, Saudi Arabia has provided major financial assistance, including a $6 billion support package in 2018, which included cash deposits and oil supply on deferred payments.
Islamabad Hosts Crucial Peace Talks
At the same time, Pakistan is hosting high-level discussions aimed at reducing tensions in the ongoing Iran conflict.
Separate delegations from the United States and Iran met with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad.
- The US team was led by Vice President J D Vance
- The Iranian delegation was led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf
Both sides are trying to negotiate a ceasefire, but major disagreements remain.
Challenges to a Ceasefire
The situation on the ground continues to be tense. Iran has set certain conditions for peace, calling them “non-negotiable red lines.”
Meanwhile, Israel’s military actions in Lebanon are continuing, which has made the peace process more difficult. Iran has insisted that a halt to these operations is necessary for any broader agreement.
Heavy Human and Economic Losses
The ongoing conflict has caused severe damage across the region:
- Thousands of deaths reported in Iran and Lebanon
- Dozens killed in Israel and Gulf countries
- Major damage to infrastructure
- Disruption in global energy markets
The Persian Gulf, which is crucial for global oil supply, has been heavily affected, pushing energy prices to record levels.
As Pakistan strengthens Saudi Arabia’s defence and hosts critical talks, the region remains on edge. The success of the ongoing negotiations in Islamabad could play a key role in preventing further escalation.
However, with fighting still continuing and differences unresolved, the path to peace remains uncertain.
