If war breaks out between India and Pakistan, which side will Saudi Arabia & UAE support?

Pahalgam Terror Attack: The Pahalgam terror attack has taken the tension between India and Pakistan to new heights. Accusing Pakistan of promoting terrorism, India has taken strict measures like banning the Indus Water Treaty, cancelling visas and cutting diplomatic relations. In response of Indian Government action Pakistan has threatened to suspend the Shimla Agreement. In this tense situation, the role of Muslim countries becomes important.

Which side will countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey be on in a possible conflict between India and Pakistan?

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia and India have deep economic and strategic ties. India is Saudi Arabia's major crude oil importer and Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in infrastructure and renewable energy in India. India is an important partner in Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's 'Vision 2030' plan.

Saudi Arabia has not only supported India's stand against terrorism but has also ignored Pakistan on the Kashmir issue. 'Saudi Arabia considers its partnership with India essential for global stability.' Therefore, Saudi Arabia will clearly lean towards India.

Qatar

Qatar will try to remain neutral in the tension between India and Pakistan. India has a large number of expatriate Indians working in Qatar and the two countries have important agreements in the gas and energy sector. Qatar wants to maintain its image as a global mediator.

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As it showed in the Hamas-Israel ceasefire. 'Qatar will not risk its diplomatic position by openly supporting any one side.' That is why Qatar will adopt a balancing policy.

Turkey

Türkiye's stance is complex. Historically, Turkey has been a supporter of Pakistan, especially on the Kashmir issue. However, the growth of trade and tourism with India in recent years has made Turkey cautious. Turkey's economy is under pressure and confrontation with a large market like India is not in its interest.

Still, President Erdogan's policy of Islamic solidarity may lead it to take a soft stand towards Pakistan. Turkey will probably remain neutral, but it may lean towards Pakistan.

Also Read: 'Mujahideen is my brother', said the terrorist's sister after the Pahalgam attack

Stand of other Muslim countries

UAE- The bilateral trade of $85 billion between UAE and India and the large presence of Indian workers make it a strong supporter of India. UAE considers India's stand against terrorism important for global security.

Indonesia and Egypt- These countries are increasing cooperation with India in areas such as maritime security, defense, and education. India's stability and economic strength keep them in India's favor.

Bangladesh- Bangladesh's economic dependence and geographical location will keep it neutral despite the anti-India statements of the interim government.

 Afghanistan- Afghanistan will support India due to India's development investments and tense relations with Pakistan.

Pakistan's Isolation

At present, no major Muslim country has openly supported Pakistan. The international community, which includes the US, Britain, France, and Russia, has supported India's actions against terrorism.

Pakistan's diplomatic isolation and poor image associated with terrorism have weakened its position.

Summary

India has taken strict measures like banning the Indus Water Treaty, cancelling visas and cutting diplomatic relations. In response, Pakistan has threatened to suspend the Shimla Agreement. In this tense situation, the role of Muslim countries becomes important. Which side will countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey be on in a possible conflict between India and Pakistan?