Iran carried out a drone attack on Saudi Arabia’s Aramco refinery, affecting energy infrastructure. Despite the defense agreement with Saudi, Pakistan has adopted a balanced stance and has appealed for peace by staying away from war.
Pakistan-Saudi Arab Defense Agreement: Iran is currently in a mood for all-out fighting. Especially Iran’s anger towards Saudi Arabia is clearly visible in its attacks. On Monday, Iran shocked the whole world by attacking Saudi Arabia’s state oil company Saudi Aramco refinery. It had to be temporarily closed after the attack. Not only this, Iran has earlier targeted many major cities of Saudi Arabia including the capital Riyadh. Iran is firing missiles one after the other at Saudi Arabia, but its friend Pakistan is silent. Why after all?
Eye on Pakistan after attack on Saudi
After the attack on Saudi Arabia, everyone’s eyes are on Pakistan at this time. This is because an important defense deal has been signed between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in September 2025. In this agreement, the top leaders and military leadership of both the countries made a NATO style deal. Under this, an attack on Pakistan or Saudi Arabia will be considered an attack on both the countries. However, despite several attacks on Saudi Arabia, Pakistan has maintained silence, which is raising questions.
Balanced stance despite defense agreement
Despite having a Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement with Saudi Arabia, Pakistan has given priority to solidarity rather than military action. Pakistan has given very balanced statements on recent developments related to Iran. A major reason for this is its historical, cultural, economic and diplomatic relations with Iran. High-level visits and cooperation on regional issues have continued between Islamabad and Tehran. Iran has also appreciated Pakistan’s support during several regional crises, reflecting the traditional friendly relations between the two countries. Also, Pakistan has old relations with Saudi Arabia.
Why would a direct war with Iran cost Pakistan dearly?
Going into open war with Iran could prove dangerous for Pakistan. There is a long and sensitive border between the two countries. Any such fight could increase communal tension inside Pakistan. In such a situation, direct military action against Iran would be a very difficult decision for the political and military leadership of Pakistan.
Future of Saudi-Pakistan defense deal
Analysts believe that the agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is a formal political signal. This should not be seen as a guarantee for unconditional military intervention. It is likely that Pakistan will avoid direct involvement in the war by maintaining the agreement.
Pakistan under pressure on many fronts
At present, Pakistan is facing tension with Afghanistan in its north-western border area. Apart from this, its relations with India have also been tense for a long time. Opening a new front at this time will be no less than a danger for Pakistan, which is facing economic crisis and internal war with Taliban. This is the reason why Pakistan has appealed for peace instead of giving aggressive statements in this entire matter. The meaning is clear, Pakistan is currently trying to strike a difficult diplomatic balance, so that it does not come into direct conflict with any side.