№ 1 (2), 2026. We’ve heard that the bilateral relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia may possess a nuclear dimension

Gossip Column

We’ve heard that the bilateral relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia may possess a nuclear dimension...

We’ve heard that the bilateral relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia may possess a nuclear dimension. The historical trajectory of their engagement demonstrates that the issue of nuclear weapons and security guarantees has consistently emerged on the bilateral agenda, as systematically reported by sources of varying credibility. The Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement has renewed interest in this matter, while the escalation surrounding Iran in February 2026 has prompted regional actors to seriously reconsider their posture toward nuclear weapons. Although current reports indicate Saudi attempts to propose a non-aggression pact in the Middle East, it remains highly plausible that a reassessment of the role of nuclear weapons is already underway, specifically between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

Keywords: Pakistan; Saudi Arabia; Nuclear nonproliferation

NPT

E16/SHAH – 26/05/16