THE clouds of ambiguity still hang over Pakistan’s diplomatic position amid the escalating tensions in the Gulf triggered by the joint US-Israeli attack on Iran. Although Islamabad has signalled what its position might be if forced to choose between Saudi Arabia and Iran, the unfolding crisis continues to test Pakistan’s delicate diplomatic balancing act with both countries. As Tehran responded to the strikes with retaliatory attacks on its Arab neighbours, the confrontation has quickly moved beyond a regional dispute, evolving into a crisis with broader global implications.

Recently, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir visited Saudi Arabia, where they met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the presence of his aides National Security Adviser Musaed Al-Aiban and chief of the intelligence directorate, Khalid Al-Humaidan. As usual, the formal statement issued by both sides noted little other than their close bilateral ties and exploring ways to further strengthen and promote cooperation across various fields. They also discussed regional developments, particularly the repercussions of the ongoing military escalation on the security and stability of the region and the world. However, the Saudi statement added that the leadership of both sides also “reviewed coordinated efforts in this regard”.

This part of the statement could be interpreted as validation of an earlier remark by the prime minister’s spokesperson for foreign media, who said that Pakistan would stand with........

© Dawn