Pakistan on Brink of Iran War? Saudi Defense Pact Raises Stakes Amid Gulf Conflict

• Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar linked the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) with Saudi Arabia to the escalating Iran conflict.
• The SMDA, formalized in September 2025, considers an attack on one party an attack on the other, raising questions about Pakistan's nuclear protection for Saudi Arabia.
• Recent Iranian drone strikes on Saudi targets, including the US embassy in Riyadh and oil facilities, have heightened tensions and pressure on Saudi Arabia.
• Pakistan faces a complex dilemma due to its deep ties in the Gulf, a significant Shia population, and ongoing border clashes with the Taliban in Afghanistan.
• While PM Shehbaz Sharif expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif made strong anti-Zionist remarks, highlighting internal divisions.