In brief
Saudi Arabia and the UAE are stepping in to mediate the growing conflict between India and Pakistan, seeking stability amid a volatile global landscape.
India and Pakistan have found themselves at a serious impasse, primarily due to accusations from India that Pakistan was involved in a terrorist attack in the Indian-administered region of Kashmir. The situation has intensified over the past two weeks, culminating in Indian airstrikes that targeted areas within Pakistan and Pakistani-held Kashmir. In a departure from its previously more involved role during international crises, the United States has taken a back seat, allowing Gulf states to fill the mediating void. A senior Saudi official, Adel al-Jubeir, has engaged in direct discussions with both Indian and Pakistani authorities—meeting with Indian officials in New Delhi and with Pakistani leaders in Islamabad shortly thereafter.Diplomatic communications have also been prevalent among Gulf nations, including the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait, showing their commitment to fostering dialogue. Additionally, Iran, which maintains important connections with both countries, has seen its foreign minister visiting both sides to facilitate discussions.Historical ties between Gulf states, particularly Saudi Arabia, and both India and Pakistan provide a solid ground for mediation. The millions of Indian expatriates in the Gulf enrich the ties with India, while Pakistan has traditionally been viewed as a security ally, for example through military partnerships that have existed since the 1960s.Previous instances of escalation saw Saudi Arabia and the UAE play crucial roles in mediating discussions. For instance, during escalating tensions in 2019 after an Indian airstrike, envoys from these nations actively engaged in diplomatic missions to both capitals. Their efforts led to a joint commitment to uphold a long-standing cease-fire, demonstrating their resolve to influence peace in the region effectively.Analysts note that the Gulf states perceive mediation as a means of gaining prestige and exerting influence, alongside protecting their own security and economic interests in the region. As the international community watches closely, the role of Saudi Arabia and the UAE may prove vital in steering both India and Pakistan away from further conflict.
