Turkey has a historical alliance with Pakistan.
New Delhi/Islamabad: Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated significantly following the tragic incident in Pahalgam, where 26 individuals lost their lives to terrorist actions. This event has captured international attention. While the global community, including many Islamic countries, has expressed backing for India, most Muslim nations appear to be prioritizing their geopolitical and economic interests over religious ties with Pakistan. Iran and Turkey are seeking diplomatic engagement, whereas Gulf nations focus on maintaining economic and regional stability. Iran has already suggested a mediating role to ease tensions, presenting itself as a neutral entity rather than taking Pakistan’s side.
Saudi Arabia, along with Gulf states such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar, has strong trade, energy, and labor relations with India. Reports indicate that these countries are refraining from providing unconditional support for Pakistan, given India’s significance as an economic partner. Saudi Arabia has not made any strong statements in response to the Pahalgam attack and views the Kashmir issue as a matter to be resolved bilaterally between India and Pakistan.
Sources indicate that Saudi Arabia aims to avoid controversies and is focused on its ‘Vision 2030’ initiative, which emphasizes increasing revenue streams, where India’s involvement is crucial.
Qatar has also chosen neutrality in this situation, focusing its foreign policy on economic stability and avoiding active participation in regional conflicts. It places its economic interests above religious affiliation.
The UAE criticized India for halting the Indus Water Treaty (IWT) but stopped short of expressing overt support for Pakistan. The UAE’s $85 billion trade with India and reliance on Indian labor and investment compel it to take a balanced approach.
Iran’s proposition for mediation reflects its desire for regional stability and the maintenance of its economic ties with India. Iran considers India a vital trading partner, especially in relation to the Chabahar port project, so it has refrained from overtly supporting Pakistan.
While Turkey has historically sided with Pakistan in the Kashmir debate, its current position is cautious. Turkey’s anticipated $10 billion trade with India in 2024 has led it to avoid antagonizing India. Its response has remained largely within diplomatic channels, which signifies its commitment to preserving economic ties with India while steering clear of direct conflict. Recently, Turkey clarified that it is not involved in supplying weapons to Pakistan.