Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar emphasized the critical importance of honoring ceasefire commitments outlined in the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and cautioned against any actions that might escalate tensions in the Middle East. These remarks were made during a phone conversation with Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah on Saturday.
The two officials discussed recent developments in the region, with the Kuwaiti Foreign Minister expressing serious concerns over ongoing attacks on Kuwaiti territory. He urged restraint from all parties and stressed the full implementation of the Islamabad MoU. Sheikh Jarrah also acknowledged Pakistan’s positive and mediatory role in fostering dialogue and promoting regional stability.
In response, Senator Dar highlighted the urgent necessity for de-escalation and underscored the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations. He reiterated that maintaining peace and security in the region must be the highest priority. Both leaders agreed to maintain close communication on issues of mutual interest.
This exchange occurred shortly after Kuwait accused Iran of targeting civilian infrastructure, including an oil facility and a power and water plant. The Kuwaiti foreign ministry condemned these attacks as part of a systematic hostile campaign endangering civilian lives and critical infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Pakistan is in early-stage negotiations with Kuwait to expand their defence cooperation in exchange for energy collaboration and investment. These talks, reported by multiple sources, could face complications due to rising tensions between the United States and Iran. Concerns have also been raised in Islamabad about the possibility of being drawn into the US-Iran conflict, especially following Pakistan’s mutual defence pact with Saudi Arabia signed last year.
Following a recent attack by the Iran-aligned Houthi movement on Saudi Arabia, Pakistan warned Iran that any aggression against Saudi Arabia would be treated as an attack on Pakistan itself. Kuwait currently maintains a limited defence agreement with Pakistan focused on training and joint exercises since 2023, but it now seeks a more robust military presence similar to Pakistan’s pact with Saudi Arabia. This includes demands for thousands of Pakistani troops, fighter jets, drones, air defence systems, and other defence facilities.
However, it remains uncertain whether Pakistan is prepared to meet Kuwait’s extensive requests, given its longstanding close alliance with Riyadh. A Pakistani security official noted that while Kuwait’s demands are comprehensive, Pakistan is not considering deploying combat troops at this stage.
A Middle Eastern source confirmed ongoing discussions between Kuwait and Pakistan, including defence procurement, but indicated it is unclear if these talks will culminate in a formal defence pact. Pakistan’s military media and Kuwait’s information ministry have not commented on the matter.
Over the past year, Pakistan and Gulf states have increasingly explored new regional defence agreements. Pakistan’s large military and domestic fighter jet production position it as a viable alternative or complement to US protection, especially as Gulf countries reassess their reliance on the United States. Kuwait views Pakistan as a reliable partner due to its existing ties with Saudi Arabia, its defence capabilities, and good relations with the US.
Additionally, Turkiye, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia are drafting a separate mutual defence pact, while Bahrain has shown interest in a similar agreement. Jordan has also expressed interest in weapons and training cooperation.
