Saudi Arabia has emerged as a dominant force in the Middle East, utilizing diplomatic strategies to reshape regional power dynamics. Over the past three months, Saudi Arabia has executed a series of calculated maneuvers, successfully countering Israel, isolating it internationally, and, by extension, strengthening its own position. A key element of this strategy is the recent deal with Pakistan, which has solidified Saudi Arabia’s position as the most secure nation in the Gulf.
Saudi Arabia, the largest country in the Middle East by area, has extensive borders with numerous nations, and maritime access. Concerns about border security prompted Saudi Arabia to seek alternative security measures. Despite a long-standing alliance with the United States, events in Qatar have raised questions about the reliability of American support, prompting Saudi Arabia to pursue alternative defense strategies.
The defense agreement with Pakistan is crucial, defining an attack on either nation as an attack on both. Given Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities, this arrangement significantly raises the stakes for potential aggressors. Saudi Arabia will invest in Pakistan’s infrastructure, including its railway, healthcare, and energy sectors, as a component of this alliance. This deal has effectively fortified Saudi Arabia’s position within the Gulf region, and analysts believe that it also hinders any designs for a ‘Greater Israel’.
Furthermore, Saudi Arabia has taken a leading role in advocating for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, asserting that lasting peace in the Middle East hinges on the recognition of a Palestinian state. Saudi Arabia’s campaign has received widespread international backing from countries like France, the United Kingdom, Canada, Portugal, and Australia. Israel, however, currently only has the unwavering backing of the United States. The resulting diplomatic shifts constitute a considerable setback for Israel.
Should a Palestinian state be established, Israel’s geopolitical position will be significantly altered, with the Palestinians having the right to an army and weaponry. Beyond its strategy with Israel, Saudi Arabia is engaging with Iran. Despite a long history of animosity and proxy conflicts, the two nations have held discussions focusing on regional security. This diverse approach demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s active role in redefining the Middle East landscape.
