After Saudi Arabia, Kuwait explores defence pact with Pakistan

New Delhi: Oil-rich Kuwait, following in the footsteps of Saudi Arabia, is in talks with Pakistan to conclude a defence pact amid Iran’s renewed attacks on Gulf states’ infrastructure in retaliation for US strikes. Islamabad is reportedly negotiating a broader defence agreement with Kuwait in return for energy cooperation and investment in resource-deficit Pakistan, according to persons familiar with the development.

Kuwait is reportedly seeking a comprehensive defence partnership that includes deployment of thousands of Pakistani troops, fighter jets, drones and air defence systems on its territory, according to a person cited above. There are reports that the conflict in the Persian Gulf region could widen in the coming weeks.

Riyadh has reportedly advised Kuwait to conclude a defence pact with Pakistan following the attacks Gulf states have faced since the outbreak of the US-Iran war. ET has learnt that Kuwait’s leadership debated the issue of broadening defence ties with Pakistan before deciding to begin negotiations. The two countries have maintained a limited defence partnership focused on joint military exercises since 2023.

However, Pakistan may find it increasingly challenging to provide military support to certain Gulf states while simultaneously mediating to end the US-Iran war. Islamabad’s moves are opportunistic and may last only as long as the current crisis, a person familiar with the issue said.