Following the defense pact between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, the arch-rival of Pakistan has reportedly been closely monitoring the development, as this could significantly alter regional dynamics.
The defense agreement, hailed in Saudi Arabia as a strategic breakthrough, comes just months after a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, in which 26 civilians were killed.
India blamed Pakistan for the assault, an accusation strongly denied by Islamabad.
The incident triggered a four-day military encounter in May, involving missile and drone strikes between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, which was reported as the most serious escalation in nearly three decades.
The escalation between India and Pakistan later reached a ceasefire agreement, which US President Donald Trump claims to have brokered on May 10.
The deepening of military ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia has reportedly drawn immediate attention in New Delhi.
READ: Joint Defense Pact: Any attack on Pakistan or Saudi Arabia now means war with both
According to foreign media reports, the Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that the Indian government is aware of the defense agreement.
“We will study the implications of this development for our national security as well as for regional and global stability. The government remains committed to protecting India’s national interests and ensuring comprehensive national security in all domains,” said Jaiswal during a weekly press briefing.
For New Delhi, the defense pact is not just a bilateral arrangement – it carries larger strategic consequences.
Over the past decade, India has steadily built a strong relationship with Riyadh, marked by economic cooperation and high-level visits.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his third visit to Saudi Arabia earlier this year, seeking to deepen energy and investment ties.
However, analysts suggest the new agreement could signal a recalibration of Riyadh’s approach to South Asia. “Pakistan’s relative position has improved,” said Sydney-based political analyst Faisal.
“This pact opens new space for bilateral defense and regional security cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia – moving beyond the previous paradigm of financial aid.”
