A Delicate Balance: Pakistan Navigates Iran-Israel Conflict
As the conflict continues to escalate, Pakistan's approach to the crisis will be crucial in determining the outcome, and the country's ability to navigate the complex web of regional alliances and interests will be put to the test, with the potential for significant consequences for regional stability and security.
The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel has significant implications for Pakistan, given its proximity to Iran and the potential for regional instability, with experts warning of grave consequences for Pakistan's national security and stability.
The conflict has already resulted in a significant human toll in Iran and Israel, with Israel targeting key Iranian military and nuclear sites, and the precision of the attacks suggesting that Israel had inside help from Iranian dissidents. The involvement of the United States in the conflict could disrupt Pakistan's plans to expand the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan and Iran, creating regional instability.
Pakistan's relations with Iran and its involvement in regional conflicts are likely to be impacted by the ongoing conflict, with former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Sardar Masood Khan expressing deep concern over the escalating Iran-Israel conflict. Khan warns that a prolonged war could lead to a mass exodus of Iranian refugees into Pakistan, straining the country's resources and social fabric, and that a weakened Pakistan-Iran border could be exploited by anti-state elements.
The country is facing a tough spot in the Iran-Israel conflict, with no good choices available, and the best choice remains a negotiated end to the conflict, but this option seems unlikely as Iran will feel compelled to retaliate against the US incursion. Pakistan could still play a productive role by serving as a conduit and mediator between Tehran and Washington, but this may attract renewed international interest in its nuclear programme.
Ultimately, Pakistan may find a clearer path out of the Iran quagmire by returning to the basics and putting human safety and dignity first, rather than relying solely on a securitised approach, and prioritizing security over human rights, trade, and other considerations.