Riyadh: Riyadh is reportedly in advanced discussions with Washington over a potential defense agreement that could reshape security ties between the United States and Saudi Arabia, according to a Financial Times report cited by Reuters. The proposed deal, still in the negotiation stage, aims to formalize a longstanding partnership between the two nations as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman prepares for an expected visit to the White House.

While details of the pact remain unclear, officials familiar with the talks suggest it could include commitments on mutual defense cooperation, arms sales, and intelligence sharing. However, questions persist about whether the agreement would amount to a binding treaty that requires U.S. Senate approval or remain a political understanding between leaders.

The discussions come at a time when Saudi Arabia has been actively broadening its defense relationships. In September, the kingdom signed a “Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement” with Pakistan, pledging coordinated responses to external threats. Analysts see this move as both a signal of Saudi Arabia’s growing strategic autonomy and a message to the United States about its intent to diversify security partnerships.

Earlier this year, the United States approved a massive $142 billion arms package for Saudi Arabia, covering advanced air defense systems, communication technology, and maritime capabilities. The deal underscored Washington’s continued role as Riyadh’s main defense supplier but stopped short of granting access to F-35 stealth fighter jets due to regional security sensitivities.

Despite these developments, the possibility of a formal U.S.–Saudi defense treaty faces several hurdles. Any binding agreement would likely face scrutiny in the U.S. Congress, where concerns over human rights and regional balance persist. Moreover, Washington must consider its commitment to maintaining Israel’s qualitative military edge in the Middle East.

For Saudi Arabia, a defense pact with the United States could serve as a strategic guarantee amid rising instability in the region, from tensions with Iran to evolving conflicts across the Red Sea corridor. For the U.S., it would reinforce its influence in the Gulf as global powers such as China and Russia seek to expand their regional roles.

Diplomatic sources suggest that any announcement regarding the defense agreement could come during the Saudi crown prince’s anticipated visit to Washington. If concluded, the pact would mark a major shift in Middle Eastern security dynamics, binding the kingdom and the United States in a more formal alliance at a time of rapid geopolitical change.