Saudi Arabia and Iran have been two regional rivals of the Muslim world, and observers believe that the trilateral pact is aimed at neutralising the threat from Tehran for Riyadh. Will the Saudis get nuclear protection? The Saudis have consistently faced strikes from Iran-backed militias from Iraq and the Houthis in Yemen, which observers believe has been a key reason for the Kingdom to sign the trilateral pact. "The agreement does not represent an effort to establish a military axis or a sectarian bloc. ALSO READ:Trump links Saudi nuclear deal to Abraham Accords: Why it matters for India's Middle East strategy