Kuwait Wants Pakistan Defence Deal Modelled On Saudi Pact After Iran Attacks: What's In It For Islamabad

Published 29 July 2026 · world

Kuwait Wants Pakistan Defence Deal Modelled On Saudi Pact After Iran Attacks: What's In It For Islamabad Published By, Last Updated: July 29, 2026, 09:01

Kuwait Wants Pakistan Defence Deal Modelled On Saudi Pact After Iran Attacks: What's In It For Islamabad Published By, Last Updated: July 29, 2026, 09:01 IST Negotiations remain at an early stage and there is no certainty that they will result in a formal defence pact, as per the report. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif (Image Credit: Reuters) Kuwait is exploring a broader defence partnership with Pakistan that could significantly deepen military ties between the two countries while opening the door to greater energy cooperation and investment, Reuters reported. The proposed arrangement comes as Gulf nations look for new security partners following recent regional tensions while Pakistan seeks to strengthen both its strategic influence and economic ties in the region. Why Is Kuwait Looking At A Bigger Defence Deal? Kuwait already has a defence cooperation agreement with Pakistan covering military training and joint exercises.

However, Reuters reported that the Gulf nation now wants a much broader security arrangement. As per the report, Kuwait is seeking a partnership similar to Pakistan’s existing defence pact with Saudi Arabia. The proposal includes Pakistani fighter jets, drones, air defence systems and expanded military support. However, a Pakistani security official said the country is not considering deploying combat troops. The official told Reuters, “Kuwait’s wish list includes everything. But We Are Not And We Cannot Consider A Deployment Of Combat Troops At This Stage." Why Is Kuwait Turning To Pakistan Now? The talks have gained urgency after months of heightened tensions in the Gulf, including attacks linked to Iran. Reuters reported that Gulf countries are increasingly looking beyond the United States for additional security partners as confidence in long-term American military protection has weakened. Pakistan’s large military, defence manufacturing capabilities and experience working with Gulf nations have made it an attractive option.

What Does Pakistan Want In Return? The proposed deal is not just about defence. As per the report, Islamabad is pushing for stronger energy cooperation and fresh investments from Kuwait. Pakistani officials are reportedly exploring the possibility of bonded fuel storage facilities in the country, building on an existing government-to-government diesel supply arrangement. Could The Deal Affect Pakistan’s Regional Balancing Act? Yes. Pakistan signed a defence agreement with Saudi Arabia last year containing a collective security clause under which an attack on one country is treated as an attack on both. Reuters reported that Pakistani officials are already concerned the Saudi agreement could complicate Islamabad’s efforts to stay out of a broader regional conflict involving Iran. A similar arrangement with Kuwait could further test Pakistan’s delicate balancing act as it tries to maintain ties with both Gulf nations and Tehran.