Goals for Our Future
Goals for Our Future: Pakistan’s Middle East strategy is becoming clearer as uncertainty fades. The country now increases its security role in the region. To begin with, it strengthens ties through new defense agreements, support for the US Gaza plan, participation in a stabilization force, and a defense offer to Qatar. Pakistan uses security engagement to stay relevant in the region.
Rebuilding Trust
Furthermore, several reasons drive this approach. Pakistan already works closely with many Arab Gulf states through troop deployments, training, weapons deals, and joint exercises. It now builds on these ties to strengthen its position. In addition, leaders believe Pakistan lost credibility when it stayed neutral during the Yemen conflict, so they now try to rebuild trust with Arab partners.
Economic Security
Moreover, Pakistan wants stronger security ties to protect its economic interests. It hopes these relationships will secure steady oil supplies, economic support, and deeper defence cooperation during tensions with India. At the same time, Pakistan’s recent moves align with US interests. By taking part in Gulf security, Pakistan reduces America’s burden in the region and supports a pro-US security system. This may also help Islamabad balance its relations with both the US and China after Washington questioned Pakistan’s position.
Regional Rivalries
Meanwhile, India’s growing influence in the Gulf also concerns Pakistan. Pakistan sees India’s expanding ties with Arab states as a threat. As a result, it seeks a bigger security role so India cannot overshadow it in the region.
However, this approach creates new challenges. Pakistan treats Arab Gulf states as if they share the same goals, but each state has different interests. Smaller Gulf states worry about Saudi Arabia’s dominance. Consequently, by aligning closely with Riyadh, Pakistan risks upsetting these smaller states and harming its diplomatic relations.
Neutrality Eroded
Additionally, taking sides in regional conflicts weakens Pakistan’s image as a neutral mediator. Israel may also dislike Pakistan’s bigger role in the Middle East, pushing Tel Aviv to strengthen its partnership with India.
Rising Pressures
Furthermore, Pakistan’s expanded role comes when Iran is weaker than before. Recent strikes on Iran reduced its regional influence. Iran may avoid direct confrontation now, but it could challenge Pakistan later. In particular, joint Saudi-Pakistan actions against groups like the Houthis could anger Iran further, placing Pakistan between a neighbor and a key ally. The recent Houthi seizure of a ship with Pakistani crew already shows their displeasure.
Finally, deeper involvement in Middle Eastern conflicts can inflame sectarian tensions inside Pakistan. The country must now decide if the benefits of a bigger regional security role outweigh the risks or if a more limited, economic-focused approach is safer.
Published in Dawn, 2nd December 2025
