Pakistan’s Bold Defense Foray into the Middle East: Opportunities, Alliances, and Geopolitical Risks

(By Dr. Muhammad Tayyab Khan Singhanvi, Ph.D)

A recent analysis published by the American magazine Foreign Policy views Pakistan’s emerging defense and diplomatic role in the Middle East and North Africa from a perspective that not only signals a clear shift in Islamabad’s foreign policy but also points to the bold entry of a new player on the region’s geopolitical chessboard. Stretching from Riyadh to Tripoli, from Khartoum to Gaza, and from Tehran to Washington, this new strategy shows that Pakistan is no longer confined to traditional diplomacy. Instead, by integrating military cooperation, defense exports, and strategic mediation, Islamabad is seeking to establish itself as an emerging net security provider.

According to Foreign Policy, this advance is not the result of a momentary reaction but part of a carefully crafted strategic framework. Under this approach, Pakistan aims to convert its military capabilities, battlefield experience, and long-standing ties within the Muslim world into tangible economic and political dividends. Prospective arms deals approximately $1.5 billion with Sudan and nearly $4 billion with Libya indicate that Pakistan now views defense exports not merely as a source of revenue, but as an effective instrument for expanding diplomatic influence. These agreements could not only open new markets for Pakistan’s defense industry but also lay the foundation for a long-term Pakistani role within the security architectures of these states.

The expansion of defense cooperation with Saudi Arabia and ongoing discussions on new agreements are considered the most critical element of this evolving landscape. Pakistan–Saudi relations have historically been deep-rooted at religious, military, and economic levels, but at the current juncture, efforts are underway to reshape them within a new strategic framework. In light of rising security concerns, the lingering effects of the Yemen conflict, and complex relations with Iran, Riyadh seeks reliable partners capable of providing not only military assistance but also political balance. Pakistan has the capacity to fill this space; however, such a role also exposes it to the risk of becoming directly or indirectly entangled in sensitive regional conflicts.

Turkey’s potential inclusion in this process introduces another compelling dimension. If Pakistan and Turkey were to align within a Saudi-led defense or security framework, it could herald the emergence of a new power bloc in the Muslim world. Yet the implications would be far from straightforward. In countries like Libya already marked by internal divisions, external interference, and the lingering threat of civil war the combined presence of Pakistan and Turkey could further complicate the regional balance of power. This is precisely where opportunity and risk converge.

Pakistan’s expression of interest in a possible international stabilization mission in Gaza reflects another significant shift in its diplomatic thinking. Historically, Pakistan has been a strong supporter of the Palestinian cause, yet it has largely refrained from direct operational involvement on the ground. Should Islamabad genuinely participate in an international or multinational mission, it would not only enhance its global profile but also place it at the heart of the Middle East’s most sensitive conflict. Alongside this, indications of Pakistan’s willingness to engage in diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions between the United States and Iran suggest an ambition to present itself not merely as a regional actor, but as a broader international mediator.

Proximity to Washington constitutes another key factor in this entire equation. For the United States, Pakistan’s growing activities offer an opportunity to share the security burden in the region. At the same time, Washington may harbor concerns that Islamabad’s increasing strategic autonomy could eventually limit American influence. For Iran, Pakistan’s expanding role is equally double-edged: on one hand, it offers hope for mediation; on the other, Pakistan’s closeness to a Saudi-led alignment may raise apprehensions.

Foreign Policy’s analysis underscores that Pakistan currently stands at a delicate yet decisive crossroads. On one side lies a golden opportunity to transform its military and diplomatic strengths into economic gains and enhanced global influence. On the other, the complex politics of the Middle East, sectarian sensitivities, and the competing interests of major powers could draw Pakistan into quagmires from which disengagement would be difficult. The central challenge for Islamabad will be how skillfully it maintains a fine balance between defense activism and diplomatic equilibrium.

In the current global environment where the MENA region remains under intense international scrutiny Pakistan’s new strategy appears to be a serious attempt to elevate its strategic weight. The question is not only how far Pakistan will go, but also which limits it will choose not to cross. If this advance proceeds with prudent planning, transparent diplomacy, and internal political stability, Pakistan could indeed emerge as a responsible and effective security partner. Otherwise, the same bold entry may entangle it in conflicts whose burden its economy and internal security may struggle to sustain.