Islamabad: Amb. A M Shahid, a former diplomat, highlighted the significance of the Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement recently established between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The agreement includes key elements such as mutual defense against aggression and the extension of Pakistan’s nuclear umbrella to Saudi Arabia, which could significantly alter regional dynamics and have far-reaching impacts on the global order.

According to Radio Pakistan, this agreement marks the beginning of a potential joint defense system or mechanism for all Muslim countries, with hopes for Egypt and other Gulf countries to join the pact. Despite their substantial investments and alliances with the United States, Gulf countries were surprised by the lack of support from their ally, prompting the sudden agreement with Pakistan. This shift indicates a growing mistrust in US policies and a desire for more reliable defense partnerships.

The situation in Qatar, where the US did not intervene against Israeli strikes despite Qatar’s significant investments, has reinforced the perception of betrayal among Middle Eastern countries. As a result, Pakistan has emerged as a trustworthy and reliable defense partner, having trained thousands of troops from these countries. This agreement is seen as a step towards a combined Muslim defense pact, with Pakistan potentially extending its nuclear umbrella to provide security to the entire Middle East against future threats.