Saudi Arabia has pledged $3 billion in financial support to Pakistan as the two countries move toward a closer strategic partnership, underpinned by a comprehensive mutual defence agreement. The strengthening relationship comes as Gulf states grow increasingly uncertain about relying on the United States as a security guarantor. Ties between Riyadh and Islamabad date back to Pakistan's founding in 1947, encompassing longstanding military and economic cooperation, though the relationship has at times been tested — most notably by Pakistan's reluctance to join the Saudi-led coalition in the Yemen war.