After the Israeli attack on Qatar, the Middle East countries felt the necessity of nuclear weapons cover. A nuclear security deal took place between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia eight days after the Israeli attack. The United States saw the development as an act of self-defence. The deal states that any attack against either nation shall be considered an attack on both.
Israel–Qatar tensions trigger Pak–Saudi nuclear deal: Analyst
American analyst Jean-Loup Samaan is of the view that the deal is connected to the Israeli attack on Qatar, despite Qatar enjoying the backing and security guarantee of the United States. Several analysts observed it as a big jolt for India. The deal is considered more significant for India’s interests in the Middle East. Let’s understand the matter—
Senior fellow Jean-Loup Samaan writes in a column in the Atlantic Council that there is nothing new in the Saudi Arabia–Pakistan deal. Both nations have had security and labour relations for a long time.
Saudi Arabia’s army is depended on Pak Army for training purpose
Saudi Arabia’s Army is historically depended on the Pakistan Army for training purposes. Pakistan has been deploying its army in Saudi Arabia since 1963, and the Pakistani Army secures the nation’s land, including Mecca and Medina.
In 1980, the United States, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia trained Afghanistan’s Mujahideen against the Soviet Union.
Analyst: India’s Middle East strategy faces setback
Jean said India failed to raise its influence in the Middle East because of Pakistan. At least 97 lakh people reside in the six nations of the Middle East. In 2024, India received $24 billion in foreign currency from the Middle East countries. After Narendra Modi came to power, India began positioning itself as a strategic player in the Middle East. India strengthened its relations with the UAE, and Saudi Arabia’s crown prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud visited India as a state guest.
‘China gains ground in Middle East’
On the other hand, Pakistan’s relations with Saudi Arabia in 2015 were not strong. According to Jean, Saudi Arabia had attacked Yemen, but Pakistan had refused to help. Later, the UAE and Saudi Arabia were upset with Pakistan. Despite this, Middle Eastern nations preferred China instead of India. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and China procured drones and missiles from China. The presence of the Chinese Navy in Oman is a serious concern for India.
Jean said Middle Eastern nations consider India an Asian power where they see opportunities for investments and regional cooperation. These nations view China as a global power, and Pakistan is a close friend of the dragon. He said China is focusing on trade and investment and does not want to interfere in domestic issues. India wanted to build a corridor with the help of the United States through the UAE and Saudi Arabia, but the Gaza war became an obstacle for India.
