Why Iran supports new Saudi Arabia-Pakistan defense pact

Pars Today – The analytical site Amwaj Media assessed Iran’s support for the new defense pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan as a step toward reducing security dependence on the U.S. and strengthening regional cooperation.

The analytical site, citing expert opinions, stated that the new defense pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan could reduce Riyadh’s security dependence on Washington and provide Iran with greater strategic maneuverability. This analysis interprets Tehran’s support for the agreement as a strategic opportunity to help establish a regional security system independent of the U.S.

According to the report by Amwaj Media, Iran’s support for the new Saudi-Pakistan defense pact can be understood within the framework of Tehran’s broader vision for creating a “comprehensive regional security system.”

Shift in regional security calculations

According to Amwaj Media, the warming of relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia following the 2023 agreement mediated by China has paved the way for a new shift in regional security dynamics. Additionally, unprecedented Israeli attacks on Qatar and the regime’s increasing aggressiveness have confronted Arab capitals with the reality that they themselves could also become targets.

Gradual reduction of dependence on the U.S.

At the core of this analysis is the argument that the Pakistan–Saudi Arabia defense pact helps the Kingdom gradually free itself from deep security dependence on the U.S.

Trita Parsi, Vice President of the Quincy Institute in Washington, stated: “A more independent Saudi Arabia and a more independent Gulf Cooperation Council is something Iran can engage with far more easily.”