New Delhi: Bankrupt Pakitan has been trying hard to position itself as an important diplomatic player in the Middle East. In August, Islambad has undertaken several key initiatives: 1) strengthened strategic ties with Syria, 2) prepared for a high-level meeting with Iran, with Asim Munir set to visit Tehran, and 3) signed the Mecca Defence Pact with Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
Pakistan wants to play an influential role in the complex geopolitics of the Middle East. The way the Trump administration is placing its trust in Pakistan makes it clear that Islamabad currently has Washington’s green light. Iran’s Foreign Ministry, commenting on Asim Munir’s visit, said the purpose of the trip is to strengthen cooperation and continue Pakistan’s “good efforts” toward promoting peace and security.
There is also the issue that Iran has reportedly been invited to join the Mecca Defense Pact between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan. This has raised questions about whom the alliance would target if Iran also joins, especially given the signals it has already sent regarding an “Islamic military bloc.” Clearly, this could have implications for Israel, as well as an indirect impact on India.
Is Islamabad becoming the centre of Middle Eastern diplomacy?
It is important to note that the situation between Iran and the United States still remains volatile. However, we recently saw the Islamabad Agreement, under which Iran and the US agreed to halt attacks against each other. Although the Islamabad Agreement has since failed, Washington and Tehran continue to threaten each other.
The initial phase of the conflict was focused on missile strikes, drone attacks, and military operations. But now, the confrontation is increasingly being fought through sanctions, maritime pressure, and competing trade routes. Each side is watching to see who backs down first.
Pakistan’s Attempt to Become a ‘Bridge’ in the Middle East
Pakistan is trying to position itself as a bridge between several countries. Notably, Islamabad has had long-standing defense cooperation with Saudi Arabia. Experts are of the opinion, the Shehbaz Sharif government is also steadily expanded military and industrial cooperation with Turkey. Now, it is rebuilding ties with Syria while maintaining dialogue with Iran and working relations with Washington.
For the United States, Pakistan’s growing regional role presents several opportunities. Islamabad’s ability to engage with Tehran, Damascus, Riyadh, Ankara, and Washington could prove highly valuable during the next crisis.
However, the real test for Pakistan will come when Donald Trump’s administration leaves the White House. Trump still has around two and a half years left in his term, and if the US accomplishes its objectives in the Middle East, it will be interesting to see how useful Pakistan remains to the American administration.
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