Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif departed for Saudi Arabia on Thursday to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aiming to discuss the rising tensions in the Middle East and regional security. Accompanying him is Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who will also engage in talks on Pakistan’s diplomatic role and efforts to promote stability in the region.
Pakistan’s Diplomatic Efforts Amid Iran-US-Israel Conflict
Pakistan has intensified its diplomacy following the recent war between Iran, the United States, and Israel. The conflict, triggered by US and Israeli attacks that killed Iran’s top leader, has significantly heightened tensions across the Middle East. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy PM/Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar have held discussions with counterparts in the region and Gulf states to help de-escalate tensions and promote regional stability.
Iranian Attacks and Global Energy Concerns
Iran has targeted US bases as well as key installations in Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Additionally, Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, leading to a surge in global oil prices, with experts warning that prices could reach $200 per barrel.
Bahrain Bestows Highest Civilian Honour on Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif
Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Strategic Defense Cooperation
Last week, Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir met with Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman to discuss Iranian attacks on Saudi Arabia under the framework of their bilateral defense agreement. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed the landmark Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) last September, which states that an attack on either country will be treated as aggression against both nations.
التقيت معالي قائد قوات الدفاع قائد الجيش الباكستاني المشير عاصم منير.
بحثنا الاعتداءات الإيرانية على المملكة في إطار اتفاقية الدفاع الإستراتيجي المشترك بين بلدينا الشقيقين، وسبل وقف هذه الاعتداءات التي لا تصب في مصلحة أمن واستقرار المنطقة، متمنيّن أن يُغلب الجانب الإيراني الحكمة… pic.twitter.com/ex5Qf32lMj— Khalid bin Salman خالد بن سلمان (@kbsalsaud) March 7, 2026
Saudi Security Measures and Drone Interceptions
Saudi Arabia recently intercepted two drones heading toward the Shaybah oil field, which Iran has repeatedly targeted to disrupt global energy markets. A spokesperson from the Saudi Ministry of Defence confirmed that the field, vital to the country’s oil production, had also been protected from several other drone attacks in recent days.
Prince Khalid bin Salman stated that there is hope the Iranian side will prioritize wisdom and reason and avoid “wrong calculations,” in order to maintain security and stability in the region.
