Asif Khurshid
The ongoing war between Iran, the United States, and Israel has taken a new dimension, completely changing the geopolitics in the Middle East. This war, which started with the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, in a joint operation between the United States and Israel, has now escalated into an all-out war. This has been marked by airstrikes, missile strikes, and even the deployment of warships, making the Middle East a war zone, particularly around the strategic waterways of the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf. Iran has since retaliated with missile strikes against Israeli cities and United States military installations in the Middle East region. There have also been reports of oil installations in some Gulf countries being attacked, pushing up oil prices to almost $200 per barrel. This war is not only affecting the military, but there has also been a humanitarian crisis, with thousands civilian killed during Israel’s strikes on Iran. A girls’ school located in the city of Minab, near abase belonging to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), was hit by a missile during a peak hour for classroom activities.
The blast destroyed the two-storey building, and at least 170 people, most of them children, were killed, and dozens of others were injured. This war is also threatening global security, particularly in terms of oil, given the strategic importance of the Middle East in the supply chain. This war presents a serious diplomatic and strategic challenge for the countries in the region, particularly Pakistan. The country is located in the conflict zone and is deeply connected to both sides, Iran and the Gulf states, politically, economically, and religiously. Pakistan shares a nearly 900 km border with Iran. Hence, stability in the neighboring country is a matter of immediate interest. Any prolonged instability in Iran could easily spill over into Pakistan’s border regions, especially in Balochistan, where militant groups and separatist elements remain active. At the same time, Pakistan cannot afford to become militarily involved in the conflict. Pakistan’s close ties with Saudi Arabia make the situation more complicated. Islamabad and Riyadh signed the Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement (SMDA) In September 2025, which clearly says that an attack on one country is an attack on the other. Pakistan’s foreign minister, Ishaq Dar, has already warned Tehran against targeting Saudi assets. These statements highlight the delicate position Islamabad now finds itself in. On the one hand, it has strategic and economic ties with Saudi Arabia, while on the other, it has cordial relations with Iran, a country with which it has very deep cultural and historical links.
The economic dimension of Pakistan’s relationship with Saudi Arabia is particularly significant. Millions of Pakistani workers live and work in the Kingdom, sending billions of dollars in remittances back home each year. These remittances represent one of Pakistan’s largest sources of foreign exchange. In addition, Saudi Arabia has repeatedly provided financial assistance to Pakistan during economic crises, including deposits in Pakistan’s central bank and investments in energy and infrastructure projects. The trade relations with Gulf states are also crucial for Pakistan, especially because of its dependence on oil imports from these states. Pakistan’s weak economy could face even bigger problems as oil prices rise due to the conflict. However, the relations with Iran are of critical importance from a strategic point of view. It was the first country to recognize Pakistan after its independence in 1947.A friendship treaty was signed between the two in 1950. Decades of diplomatic relations have persisted between these two neighbors in spite of tensions in the region. However, the relationship with Iran is equally significant from a strategic point of view. Iran was the first country to recognize Pakistan after it gained independence in1947, and a friendship treaty was signed between the two nations in 1950.Despiteregional tensions, the diplomatic relationship between the two countries has continued for many years. The common history, Persian literary traditions, cultural links, and ethnic affinities in the border areas are contributing factors to the mutual relations between both countries and their people.
Therefore, active diplomacy between Iran and the Gulf states could be a better approach for Pakistan, as it could encourage dialogue and help reduce tensions. Pakistan has historically maintained channels of communication with both Tehran and Riyadh, giving it the potential to play a mediating role. However, stability within the country is very important, and sectarian tensions will need to be addressed as the war continues. The crisis brings both risks and opportunities for Pakistan. If Pakistan stays neutral, promotes talks between the sides, and avoids joining the fighting, Islamabad can keep its own interests safe and help prevent the conflict from spreading, supporting peace and stability in the region.