Pakistan has deployed 13,000 troops and 10–18 fighter jets in Saudi Arabia. This step is considered to be part of the defense agreement between the two countries and the strategy to strengthen regional security and military cooperation amid Iran-Saudi tension. Amidst Iran-Saudi tension, defense agreement and missile defense deployment, is this major military step the beginning of a new war or strategic alliance?
Pakistan Saudi Arabia Troops Deployment: According to recent reports, Pakistan has taken a major military step in Saudi Arabia. It is being told that about 13,000 soldiers of Pakistan Army and 10 to 18 fighter jets have been deployed in Saudi Arabia. This deployment is not part of any general military exercise but is linked to a strategic defense agreement between the two countries. It has come to light that these soldiers and jets have been deployed at King Abdulaziz Air Base located in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia.
What is Pakistan-Saudi Arabia defense agreement?
Last year, an important defense strategic agreement was signed between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The biggest thing about this agreement is that if there is an attack on one country, it will be considered an attack on both the countries. That means this agreement is a kind of “mutual defense pact”. Under this agreement, Pakistan has now sent its soldiers and air force units to Saudi Arabia, so that the military strength and coordination of both the countries can be strengthened.
What is being said as the real purpose of the deployment?
According to sources associated with the Defense Ministry of Saudi Arabia, the purpose of this deployment is not war but security and preparation. The main reasons being given are-
- Better military coordination between the armies of the two countries.
- Operational readiness means being ready for any situation.
- Strengthening regional security.
- Maintaining stability at the international level.
- In simple language, this step has been taken to “increase defense strength” and “risk management”.
Growing balance between Iran, Saudi and Pakistan
Pakistan always plays the role of a “balancing country” in the politics of the Middle East and South Asia. On one hand, Pakistan has historical and religious relations with Iran. On the other hand, economic and defense relations with Saudi Arabia are very strong. For these reasons, Pakistan has to take every step very carefully so that tension does not increase with any one party. According to experts, this deployment becomes more important at a time when tension already exists between Iran and Saudi Arabia in the region.
Regional tensions and security situation
The security situation in the Gulf region has remained quite sensitive in recent months. According to reports, tension has increased between Iran and western countries. Incidents of drone and missile attacks have also been reported in some areas. Concern has increased regarding the security of Saudi Arabia’s strategic bases. In view of this situation, Saudi Arabia has emphasized on further strengthening its defense capability.
Why is Pakistan’s role increasing?
Pakistan is considered a reliable military partner of Saudi Arabia. Many reasons account for this-
- long-standing military cooperation
- Training and Defense Support
- Common interest in regional security
- strategic geographical location
For this reason, Pakistan’s military presence has been there in Saudi Arabia before, but the scale of deployment this time is said to be much larger.
Not just military deployment, but also strategic message
This deployment is not just being considered as the deployment of troops and jets, but it is also being seen as a strategic message. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are further strengthening their defense relations. Security preparations are being increased amid regional instability and efforts are being made to maintain the balance of power in the Gulf region.