How Pakistan Is Torn Between Iran and Saudi Arabia | DW News

Why It Matters

Pakistan’s diplomatic juggling determines whether it can remain a stabilizing bridge in a volatile Middle East, impacting regional security, its economy, and the strategic calculations of the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Iran.

Key Takeaways

• Pakistan signed defense pact with Saudi Arabia linking oil to nuclear aid.
• US-Israel strike on Iran forced Pakistan to condemn both sides.
• Pakistan balances ties: Saudi financing vs Iranian border security concerns.
• Public opinion in Pakistan overwhelmingly supports Iran despite sectarian divides.
• Islamabad seeks mediator role, avoiding military involvement in Gulf conflict.

Summary

The video examines Pakistan’s precarious diplomatic tightrope between Saudi Arabia and Iran after a 2022 defense pact tied Saudi oil wealth to Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities. The pact, meant to cement a strategic alliance, became a liability when the United States and Israel struck Iran in February, prompting Tehran to retaliate against Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia.

Pakistan responded by condemning the US‑Israel attack on Iran while also denouncing Iran’s strikes on Saudi and other Gulf nations, a dual stance reflected in its contradictory United Nations votes. Economic dependence on Saudi financing, remittances from millions of Pakistani workers, and historic military cooperation further complicate Islamabad’s position, as does a volatile 900‑kilometre border with Iran plagued by Baluch separatist activity.

Prime Minister spokespersons emphasized readiness to aid Saudi Arabia if needed, yet parliamentary consensus in 2015 rejected participation in the Saudi‑UAE Yemen campaign, citing public opposition and concerns over Iranian‑backed Houthis. Street protests in Karachi after the Iranian leader’s death highlighted strong pro‑Iran sentiment across Sunni and Shia communities, underscoring domestic pressures shaping foreign policy.

The balancing act forces Pakistan to consider a mediator role, preserving ties with both regional powers while avoiding direct military entanglement. Its approach will influence regional stability, affect Saudi‑US strategic calculations, and test Pakistan’s ability to navigate competing economic and security interests.

Original Description

Pakistan has a defense pact and a friendship with Saudi Arabia, but shares a border and social ties with Iran. If the Saudis ask for help against Iran, Pakistan would be stuck. How is it managing these relationships?

#dwgeopolitics #pakistan #iran #saudiarabia

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