Iran praised the Pakistan Saudi defence deal, calling it the start of a “comprehensive regional security system.” The agreement was signed last week in Riyadh by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman. The deal states that aggression against one state will be considered an attack on both.
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The timing reflects rising regional tensions. It followed an Arab summit on collective security after Israel’s attack on Qatar. It also came months after a deadly India-Pakistan clash and the Iran-Israel war in June. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian welcomed the pact during his UN General Assembly speech. He stressed it could unite Muslim countries in West Asia on defence and political matters.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar suggested that other nations are interested in forming similar agreements. He called it premature to name them but confirmed ongoing discussions. This shows the Pakistan Saudi defence deal may inspire broader cooperation among regional states.
Iran and Saudi Arabia were once rivals in Syria and Yemen. They cut ties in 2016 but restored relations in 2023 with China’s mediation. Since then, leaders from both sides have met frequently. Saudi Arabia also condemne d Israeli strikes on Iran and expressed concern over US attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities.
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Meanwhile, President Pezeshkian told the UN that Iran will never build nuclear weapons. He criticized European powers for trying to reimpose sanctions, calling their move “illegal.” Talks continue as the September 27 deadline approaches. Despite disputes, both Iran and Europe left the door open for dialogue. The Pakistan Saudi defence deal, however, signals a possible new security era for the region.