Pakistan Halts $1.5 Billion Defense Deal with Sudan Over Saudi Objections.

Pakistan has officially suspended a landmark $1.5 billion defense agreement with Sudan following direct objections from Saudi Arabia. The decision comes as Riyadh reportedly withdrew its financial backing for the acquisition and urged Islamabad to terminate the contract entirely.

Context of the Suspended Deal

• Final Stages: The agreement was nearing completion as of January 2026 before the sudden halt.
• Military Hardware: The deal involved the export of advanced military equipment to the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) to support their operations during the nation’s ongoing civil war.
• Geopolitical Pressure: The withdrawal of Saudi financial support highlights the intricate balance of defense diplomacy and regional alliances currently shaping Pakistan’s foreign policy.