New Developments in Saudi Defense Diplomacy
Saudi Arabia is set to enter into a defense agreement with the US. The new agreement comes after the recent Pakistan–Saudi defense agreement, says a report by The Financial Times. It is another significant move of Saudi Arabia's expanding web of security alliances.
Visit of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Soon
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is scheduled to visit the White House shortly. On this trip, both nations intend to seal the defense agreement. An earlier discussion of such an agreement was made, as per a senior U.S. official, but details were not at that time confirmed.
Context of the Regional Security Environment
Recently, Israel conducted airstrikes in Qatar against Hamas leaders. In the wake of that, Qatar and the United States signed a defense agreement. That agreement regards any armed attack on Qatar as being aimed directly at the U.S. Now, it is reported that the U.S. can also extend such defense protection to Saudi Arabia.
Strategic Importance of the U.S.–Saudi Defense Deal
American foreign officials call the Saudi defense partnership a significant move towards enhancing security in the region. Yet, the complete terms of the agreement are not available. Neither the White House nor the Saudi government has made an official announcement.
Recent Defense Cooperation Between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia
Earlier, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had signed an independent defense agreement. The agreement outlines that if either nation is attacked, it will be considered an attack on both nations, and they will respond to the threat together.
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