Pakistan Halts $1.5bn Sudan Arms Deal After Saudi Pressure

Pakistan has suspended a $1.5 billion weapons and jets deal with Sudan, following direct pressure from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to terminate it.

Saudi Arabia, a key Pakistani ally, signalled it would no longer finance the purchase, prompting Islamabad to put the agreement with Sudan on hold.

Three Pakistani and diplomatic sources confirmed the development, saying the deal had effectively stalled due to the withdrawal of support from Saudi Arabia.

A March meeting in Riyadh between Sudan’s army commanders and Saudi officials resulted in Saudi Arabia formally withdrawing its financing commitment.

One Pakistani security source stated that Saudi Arabia had directly signalled Pakistan should now terminate the deal without further delay.

The conflict in Sudan between the army and the Rapid Support Forces has created what experts describe as the world’s worst humanitarian crisis.

The war has been ongoing for roughly three years, destabilising the country and drawing in competing foreign powers with distinct regional interests.

Saudi Arabia has aligned itself with the military of Sudan, while the United Arab Emirates has been accused of backing the rival paramilitary forces.

The UAE officially denies allegations that it has provided logistical support to the Rapid Support Forces throughout this ongoing armed conflict.

Western nations reportedly advised Riyadh to step back from involvement in proxy conflicts across the African continent, influencing its decision.

Pakistan’s military had gained significant international attention after its jets and weapons systems were used during skirmishes with India last year.

A separate $4 billion arms deal with the National Army of Libya is also now reportedly in jeopardy for broadly similar strategic reasons.

A second Pakistani security source said Saudi Arabia is currently reviewing its broader military and financial strategy across both conflict-affected countries.

Saudi Arabia has provided Pakistan with critical loans and financing, and both countries signed a mutual defence pact last year.

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