Pakistan, Kuwait discuss new defence partnership amid US-Iran tensions, says report

Pakistan and Kuwait are holding early discussions on expanding their defence partnership as part of a broader arrangement that could include energy cooperation and fresh investments.

According to a Reuters report, the proposed agreement is still in its initial stages and no final decision has been taken. It said that the talks could also be affected by rising tensions between the United States and Iran, which have reshaped the security environment across the Gulf.

The latest developments come at a time when Pakistan is facing questions over its growing defence commitments in the region.

Officials in Islamabad are concerned that Pakistan's mutual defence pact with Saudi Arabia, signed last year, could draw the country into the ongoing US-Iran conflict.

Pakistan has also warned Tehran that any attack on Saudi Arabia would be treated as an attack on Pakistan.

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Kuwait seeks stronger military partnership

Pakistan and Kuwait have had a limited defence agreement since 2023 covering military training and joint exercises. However, Kuwait is now seeking a much broader partnership similar to Pakistan's defence arrangement with Saudi Arabia.

According to a Pakistani government official cited by Reuters, Kuwait's proposal includes the deployment of thousands of Pakistani troops, along with fighter aircraft, drones, air defence systems and other military capabilities.

A Pakistani security official said Kuwait's "wish list includes everything" but stressed that Islamabad is not considering the deployment of combat troops.

Changing security dynamics in the Gulf

The talks reflect broader changes in the Gulf's security architecture. Several Gulf countries are exploring new defence partnerships as concerns grow over the long-term reliability of US security guarantees.

According to the report, Pakistan is viewed as a reliable option because of its longstanding defence ties with Saudi Arabia, close relations with the United States and established military capabilities.

Reuters also reported that Turkey, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are drafting a separate multilateral defence agreement. Bahrain is said to be interested in a similar arrangement, while Jordan has expressed interest in defence equipment purchases and military training.

Energy cooperation part of negotiations

Beyond security, the proposed agreement could strengthen economic ties between Pakistan and Kuwait. Islamabad is seeking greater energy cooperation as it looks to improve its strategic fuel reserves and attract foreign investment.

According to the report, Kuwait is exploring the possibility of establishing bonded fuel storage facilities in Pakistan, building on an existing government-to-government diesel supply agreement.

These energy and investment proposals could make a broader defence partnership more attractive for Islamabad, with negotiations expected to gain momentum once tensions between the United States and Iran begin to ease.