NEW DELHI: Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a “Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement” this week, raising questions about whether Riyadh could gain access to Pakistan’s nuclear shield at a time of heightened regional tensions. The pact, announced on Wednesday, combines Saudi financial strength with Pakistan’s powerful military, the only nuclear-armed force in the Muslim world, according to analysts cited by Reuters. Few details of the agreement have been disclosed, and Islamabad maintains that its nuclear weapons are solely aimed at deterring India. However, Gulf Arab states have expressed concerns about Israeli military actions, while Saudi officials suggested the pact covers “all military means.” Analysts told Reuters the deal reflects a waning confidence in the United States as a secur

See Full Page