Yemen conflict: Neutrality no longer an option for Pakistan?

Muhammad Amir Rana Published March 31, 2015

The growing concern that Pakistan’s direct involvement in the Yemeni crisis could have grave consequences for its internal security and sectarian harmony are valid. It will widen the sectarian divide in the society and the risk of sectarian violence will increase.

The existing complex militant landscape of the country will open up spaces for ultra-sectarian groups like the self-styled Islamic State (IS).

Also read: Pakistan will not participate in conflict that divides Muslim Ummah: Khawaja Asif

In that context, a rational and sensible choice for Pakistan could be to stay away from the Yemeni conflict and not become a party in it. But is this option available for Pakistan? If yes, what would be the cost of being impartial?

The Saudis have deep influence inside Pakistan’s state institutions and have gradually been encroaching into spaces that impact public spheres. Saudi Arabia is among the three countries that have had an important place in Pakistan’s foreign policy determinants.

Compared to Saudis, the US and China enjoy less privilege in Pakistan although they also have an influence over the latter’s internal political and military issues. The Saudis have at times played a mediatory role in resolving the civil-military and other political crises in Pakistan.

Take a look: Yemen conundrum

It is not difficult to understand how the Saudi influence increased in Pakistan. Though historically Pakistan has tried to keep a balanced relationship with the Middle Eastern states, especially with Iran and Saudi Arabia, its tilt towards Riyadh started after military dictator General Ziaul Haq took over the government.

However, Pakistan had tried to avoid any confrontation with Iran at the cost of its warm relations with Saudi Arabia. But maintaining a balanced relationship with the two countries has always been a tricky task.

Read: Nawaz assures Saudi King Salman of Pakistan Army support

To keep the strategic and diplomatic balance of this three-way equation in its favour, Saudis provided not only economic assistance to Pakistan at many critical occasions but also diplomatic support on critical issues including Kashmir, Afghanistan and Pakistan’s nuclear program.

They also strengthened their ties with Pakistan’s military, political establishments and religious elites to an extent where they have become movers and shakers in Pakistan’s internal affairs.

The sectarian view of the Saudis holds a central place in defining their bilateral and strategic relations with the Muslim countries.

Know more: Saudi Arabia, allies launch air strikes against Houthis in Yemen

Countries like Pakistan, which are in a process of democratic transition and where sectarian tendencies have not yet encroached into national political discourse, face a dilemma in their relations with Saudi Arabia.

Pakistan’s political parties have different sectarian credentials and may look towards Riyadh differently when in power.

The Saudis’ views about the previous government of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and its leadership are not a secret. The Saudis did not hide their feelings towards ‘Shia and Iran-friendly’ government of the PPP and refused to supply oil on deferred payments. The cut in oil supplies had worsened the economic crisis in Pakistan during the PPP government.

That pushed the PPP government towards Tehran. The signing of the Iran-Pakistan (IP) gas pipeline project in 2013 was a strategic move by the former president Asif Ali Zardari to create some geo-economic balance in Pakistan’s relationship with Tehran and Riyadh.

Iran has built its part of the pipeline as per the agreement and gas supply will not take much time to start if Pakistan also completes its section of the pipeline. Iran believes the present Pakistani government is delaying the pipeline project under Saudi and US pressure.

Also read: Yemen crisis: Don't bring the war to my home

Apart from sectarian and other considerations, the IP gas project was one of the reasons behind the surge in cordial relationship between the Saudis and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government.

The Saudis provided US $1.5 billion in unconditional financial assistance to Pakistan early last year as a goodwill gesture.

The PML-N government can get more assistance if it continues serving the purpose of the Riyadh. But this might not be easy for the government because public sentiments are not in favour of Pakistan’s Saudi-influenced involvement in the Yemeni crisis.

Many political leaders are insisting that Pakistan must play the role of a mediator between Iran and Saudi Arabia. There is no doubt that Pakistan can make diplomatic efforts to reduce the diplomatic stress between these two countries, but the recent military action in Yemen has reduced chances for that.

The Saudis are on a diplomatic offensive to influence their close allies including Pakistan and would not allow them to hold a neutral position over the Middle East crisis.

Not only the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) but other African and Asian countries, including Turkey, and even the US and Western allies of Pakistan are supporting the Saudis’ venture in Yemen.

Also read: No decision on joining military campaign in Yemen before KSA visit: official

This is a “crucial moment” of decision-making for Islamabad in terms of weighing its options especially when the option of neutrality is not available.

While the economic and strategic costs of neutrality will be high, taking sides could have its own sectarian and security-related implications.

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Muhammad Amir Rana is a security analyst. He is the Director of Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS), Islamabad, Pakistan.

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Honey Badger

Mar 31, 2015 01:01pm

No sir Dont tell us what to do Ok, Dont order us. We shoul know what is in our best interest.

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AsR

Mar 31, 2015 01:02pm

Staying neutral could cost our begging bowl but would save our society from the catastrophe of sectarian mayhem.

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rehan

Mar 31, 2015 01:03pm

With Sharif at the helm , it would be very difficult for Pakistan to remain neutral. Pakistan is the lowest priority for any politician here and I wouldn't be surprised if they make a decision based on how much dollars are thrown to them.

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Rashid

Mar 31, 2015 01:08pm

Gulf times news paper in Qatar already showing "Pakistan sending its troops to Yemen"

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sheikh

Mar 31, 2015 01:08pm

Why are we so hung up in painting this Saudi-led offensive in Yemen as a Shia-Sunni matter only. Why can't we look at it as an allied offensive of Muslim countries in a fellow Muslim country to save it's legitimate government from a coup orchestrated by a bunch of heavily armed rebels (no matter what secterian group majority of these rebels belong to). In this perspective it does make sense for Pakistan to join hands with a coalition of 10 or more other Muslim countries and also while the wider International community agrees that the rebels in Yemen need to be halted.

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miristan

Mar 31, 2015 01:14pm

Pakistan will be disintegrated if they join Saudi aggression. This could be start of world war three. What is the will of people of Pakistan ?. Please keep away will of Sharif Khandan and their political agenda. Pakistan should never join Saudi war.

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Aston

Mar 31, 2015 01:16pm

Pakistani public is kept on steady drip of reality. It is foregone conclusion that Pakistan will ultimately send troops to fight on behalf of KSA no matter what general opinion is. It is inevitable. Every country which has provided aid of all kind to Pakistan will ask for return favor whenever they need it. Saudi Arabia is biggest donor so it will ask for bigger favor. Other two donors being China and USA. Policies of past has beginning to haunt om all fronts which was inevitable too. It was just matter of when.

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khanm

Mar 31, 2015 01:27pm

we have to have a very balance approach/decision. study each and every thing in minute details of this entire situation. we have to sort out the repercussion and its consequences.we cannot afford to make a decision based on emotions and sentiments.The policy makers should be on board to make sure that the interest of the country is vital and supreme... folks... Kings may be judges of the earth, but wise men are the judges of kings....that is the choice we have to make...

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Rauf

Mar 31, 2015 01:34pm

@sheikh So Mr. Sheikh, what is your view about Syria and Iraq? Why these allies didn't feel about any operation against IS?

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muhammad

Mar 31, 2015 01:36pm

@sheikh Mr. Sheikh why can't all muslim stand and make the joint army against Israel. Saudi doing because mostly they are belong to shias or iran. Not because they are worried about their neighbors.. thats the truth and as a pakistani we should not involve in this matter its saudi and iran Proxy war let them fight with each other. and if pakistan wants to be a part then try to bring both party on table and sort this problem out.

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Faysal

Mar 31, 2015 01:42pm

If there is no war in this world, how will ammunition producing factories will run their business. Remember, "Arms for Peace". Muslim world, should make themselves NATO, UNO like nations, then build your peace keeping force.

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timetostopthis

Mar 31, 2015 01:43pm

@miristan It is a little too late for your suggestions as the Gulf News in the UAE has already confirmed that Pakistan will be joining Saudi Arabia in its fight against the rebels in Yemen.

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khanm

Mar 31, 2015 01:49pm

@Aston.... our motto is....Honesty is the best policy - if there is money in it.

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Realist

Mar 31, 2015 01:50pm

Pakistanis, those of you who are supporting KSA! Please think again. This war in Yemen is not between Muslims and non-Muslims countries. This war is between two Muslim countries, whether KSA and Yemen or KSA ann Iran. We must be neutral.

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khanm

Mar 31, 2015 01:52pm

@rehan ....Greed is not a financial issue. It's a heart issue.

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Munir Varraich

Mar 31, 2015 01:52pm

Take a lesson from the recent stand off between Saudis and Sweden. Saudis pulled back their Ambassador in retaliation to Swedish Foreign minister's criticism of Saudi's human rights record. Sweden cancelled the USD 1,3 billion arms agreement between the two countries, there and then and did not take Saudi's pressure. Sweden has always been very clear about her national interests; in 1910 when Sweden was a poor country, in 1970s when she was the best social welfare states in the world, and even now in 2015 during this stand off.

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Moosa

Mar 31, 2015 01:56pm

There is no threat to Mecca or Medina. If there is then it is from ISIS and not Huotis. Only because Sharifs have a relation with Saudia - including matrimonial relations - it doesnt mean he can use Pak Army as Saudia's personal army. Yes will we defend the holy places but not Saudia's borders! Why should we?

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khanm

Mar 31, 2015 01:57pm

Do we really trust our leadership.... Anyone who doesn't take truth seriously in small matters cannot be trusted in large ones either....let us save ourselves from this frustration..no matter what we comments, our troops are going to be there.. it is a fact so help me god...

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M. Jan

Mar 31, 2015 02:04pm

Pakistan should avoid getting caught in this conflict because that is the right thing to do. There is no truly legitimate government in the Arab world that needs protection. Saudi royal family is only interested in self preservation. Pakistan may want to guarantee the protection of holy places in Saudi Arabia but protecting the royal family is immoral and a disservice to the people of Saudi Arabia.

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M. Asghar

Mar 31, 2015 02:08pm

Pakistan cannot go beyond the mediation role in the civil strife in Yemen to avoid the boomerang effect in the country with such a varied community.

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Proud Pakistani

Mar 31, 2015 02:16pm

No country can remain netural especially third world country, by the way what about the Pakistanis working in Saudi Arabia and the foreign exchange they are sending? Have you ever thought about that! Don't be emotional by abusing PM or Saudi Arabia - first learn to stand up and then talk long... otherwise just watch and see.

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Saif

Mar 31, 2015 02:17pm

The writer and most of the people as well miss the point that it is not the mainly the Saudi money influencing Pakistan to take its side but the fact that in the past both military and civilian rulers have used Saudi influence to try to get their lives spared whenever something politically went wrong in the country. From Bhutto to Pervaiz Musharraf. So for Nawaz and Raheel, you never know when you next need Saudis for your help. The only way to get of this is a long term political stability in the country. Unfortunately it is still lacking in Pakistan due to some political adventurists.

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Syed Ali Anwer

Mar 31, 2015 02:18pm

The solution is simple. Nawaz Sharif, Ishaq Dar, Saifur Rahman and Asif Ali Zardari can collectivly write out a cheque of 1.5 billion dollars and return it to the Saudis and tell them to take a hike. After all its the people's money they have in their coffers. Shamless and selfish leaders.

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Tanvir Khan

Mar 31, 2015 02:27pm

Everyone know that NS has close ties with the SAUDS. I believe that in this scenario our so called Establishment has to play a key role. We as a nation should not be dictated by others. NS is deeply in debt to the royal family and will not say no to them. Somebody should advise him of the consequences if he bows down to their request. We have so many internal issues that needs full attention by our government and its key institutions. Difficult times need difficult decisions. We are fighting an internal war and cant afford to involve ourselves on external issues.

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Zak

Mar 31, 2015 02:27pm

Neutrality is the only option and we should encourage KSA and Iran to solve the issues between themselves as any third party intervention will have serious consequences for the region and the world as a whole.

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shamain

Mar 31, 2015 02:29pm

Their is no scope for Pakistan involvement as we cannot be a neutral party, we are indebted to KSA for all the support they have provided over the years only option for KSA and Iran is to sit across a table one-on-one and sort out all the issues between them.

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khangul

Mar 31, 2015 02:47pm

@AsR You said it all.

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Kanwarch

Mar 31, 2015 02:55pm

Pakistan should stay neutral at any cost. We might not get oil at reduced price or aid but that does not matter as we should and can stand on our own feet. There are many countries who will stay neutral and still have better relationship with Saudis. We need to lead the muslim countries and play a part in uniting them rather than taking sides. Pakistan need to put his own house in order first as Saudis or anybody else do not come to help us to prevent the bloodshed in our country

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N.S

Mar 31, 2015 03:07pm

Don't...stay put. Play the role of a mediator

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Muhammad Khalid Ashraf, Riyadh.

Mar 31, 2015 03:22pm

There is one and only one option left for Pakistan to support Saudi Arabia in its offensive against Yemen.The cost of this is much meagre as compared to the cost what we have to pay if we remain neutral as it will be considered supporting Iran which will be much more dangerous.If we refuse to support Saudi Arabia then we might be facing serious economic setback in terms of our huge financial remittances and loss of our four million employment in GCCC Countries for a long time to go.

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atif

Mar 31, 2015 03:24pm

consequences of a NO to saudis could have lot of implications for pak other than those already mentioned in this article saudis can threaten and also actually send back pakistanis working in saudia. they can also exert influence on other gulf states to do the same to expat pakistanis. even if saudis today start open recruitment from pakistan for their military, many ppl would be going their happily for both religious and economic reasons. many of the madaris funded by saudis could also provide them with 'trained manpower'. i think the option available for pak would be to send troops but only on predecided condition that those troops would not be used beyond borders of saudi arabia. under no circumstances pak troops should take part in any offensive from saudi arabia towards yemem. that would be disastorous

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Jamal

Mar 31, 2015 03:35pm

Our assumption that democratically elected leaders represent the will of the people has always proven wrong. It just gives the politicians perceived legitimacy to exploit the mandate to their own advantage thereby exploiting the public. Pakistani people do not want any part in this war. We had never imagined taking part in a conflict in which Muslims are killing Muslims. Whatever happened to the spirit of OIC and the Muslim Ummah?

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Mar 31, 2015 03:53pm

Pakistan needs to stop kowtowing to the Saudis and the house of Saud in particular and stop prostituting itself to the highest bidder. Unfortunately Pakistani politicians are corrupt and always looking to the bottom line rather than the future of Pakistan as a secular and modern Islamic state. It does not need Saudi pressure or the likes of Daesh perpetuating their barbaric ideology. Pakistan needs education, freedom from corruption and a string leader that will put Pakistan's interests before those of others. Additionally Pakistan has no quarrel with Iran and does not need to meddle in its affairs.

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Sunil

Mar 31, 2015 03:53pm

@Aston Yes policies of the past are catching up with you and Pakistan will be getting deeper and deeper into a mess of its own making. No matter if you join or not, you will not be able to control the forces that are unleashed. You will not be looking east but west, where the threat comes from. There is no peace for Pakistan.

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Mar 31, 2015 03:58pm

@sheikh "Why are we so hung up in painting this Saudi-led offensive in Yemen as a Shia-Sunni matter only." Because this is Saudi meddling in the internal affairs of another country. Saudi is the root cause of Daesh and Al Qaeda. Also what makes you think that the "rebels" are also not Muslim? Pakistan should not be involved in propping up an unpopular corrupt regime, especiall

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zak

Mar 31, 2015 04:00pm

Pakistan must stay neutral at all costs. Do not ignore Iran. We just made friends with Afghanistan, now don't make enemies with Iran. Lead as a regional power, not as ' in law of Saudi royal family'.

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Raman

Mar 31, 2015 04:05pm

Three way Tango! Can't say "NO' to USA ($$$, IMF), China (all Weather friend, Loans etc.) and then Saudi Arabia (Religious affiliations, refuge country of their past PM). The media is still debating in Pakistan but if the Guardian news is to be believed S. Arabia has raised 150, 000 ground troop that also includes Pakistani contingent among others.

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IBN E ASHF AQUE

Mar 31, 2015 04:19pm

We need army for the polls, on the border in India, in karachi, in North Waziristan, to fight in Baluchistan, to fight in Kashmir and now in Yemen. For God's sake wakeup. Pakistan will sleep walk into disaster.......Yemen is none of our business.

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Ambition

Mar 31, 2015 04:20pm

We should not join this war at any cost. Aren't we paying already for joining others wars??

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Agha Asad Raza

Mar 31, 2015 04:25pm

STAY OUT or at best Neutral!!

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Agha Asad Raza

Mar 31, 2015 04:26pm

@Rashid Yes we are moving troop.

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Tired

Mar 31, 2015 04:28pm

@sheikh would please explain to me why a similar coalition of "Muslim" arab states was not formed to protect the legitimate "Muslim" Iraqi Govt from IS militants ?

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Muzaffar Ali

Mar 31, 2015 04:32pm

Pakistan will send a token Brigade for guard duty within KSA only.

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Ero

Mar 31, 2015 04:33pm

When will Pakistan stand on its own feet?

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Zubair Nawaz

Mar 31, 2015 04:36pm

So called leaders of Pakistan listen up ! NO TO INVOLVEMENT IN WARS WHICH ARE NOT OUR OWN. FULL STOP !

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Iqbal Bhai

Mar 31, 2015 04:37pm

It is all about who is the government. If PPP is the ruling party, Iran gets an upper hand in our policy. If it is PML-N, the Saudi gets the upper hand. So blame yourself.

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Harris

Mar 31, 2015 04:39pm

Shia or Sunni all are muslims... Pakistan should be a peace broker not assisting war mongering... WE ARE TIRED OF SACRIFICING OURSELVES for other's CAUSE !! If Saudis were so capable they would have avoided being in this situation..

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kumail

Mar 31, 2015 04:39pm

Was Yemen a aggressor. Was it a internal matter. Yemen president term expired and he already resigned. For small political issue Saudi Arabia should not have invaded Yemen

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lafanga

Mar 31, 2015 04:39pm

It's a tricky situation made worst by Nawaz Shareef's close ties with the Saudis. He has businesses and a palace there (With Shareef's it's all about the money. Pakistan comes second). If asked to say yes or no, he will say yes to protect his Saudi interests. This is NOT the war that Pakistan can afford to join on either side. This has got disaster written all over it. Better to say no now and go hungry for a bit or say yes and suffer the long term consequences.

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Aadami

Mar 31, 2015 04:40pm

Why are we silent about ISIS? And other terrorists organizations on our own soil?

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Ghani K

Mar 31, 2015 04:41pm

If parliament takes a stand in favour of neutrality , we might be able to avoid direct involvement in Yemen, Sharif's personal loyalty to Royals of Al Saud , I am afraid will make us partisan in this conflict.

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Nadeem

Mar 31, 2015 04:50pm

@sheikh What about the coup which saudi and GCC countries openly supported in Syria against Bassar al Asad??? Want that legitimate government and see they have Syria into

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Random

Mar 31, 2015 05:01pm

Muslim Ummah was always a myth. USA intervention in Islamic Republics will change from military intervention to diplomatic advise and strategical support. The new policy will be divide and control.

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Ahmer Ansari

Mar 31, 2015 05:03pm

All muslim ummah must be united against terrorist whether they are sunni or shia. All muslim countries should create a united army like NATO to curb terrorism. Pakistan should take leading part in such army.

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Zain

Mar 31, 2015 05:09pm

3 million pakistanis work in gcc countries and send over $18 billion every year How many pakistanis work in iran? This is a no brainer

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Tariq, Lahore

Mar 31, 2015 05:09pm

Pakistan must not take sides but MUST engage as a peace maker only!

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Sara

Mar 31, 2015 05:10pm

We do have a choice. Always.

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umer

Mar 31, 2015 05:14pm

Its not the question that Pakistan should join Saudi led coalition or not. Bigger question is that will this offensive against Yemeni rebels bring any fruit to this situation? No. It will worsen the situation and this fight will never or take years to end. The need of time is to sit on the table and resolve the situation like western nations do. These westerners are resolve their differences on the table. On the other hand join coalitions when it comes to Muslim countries to increase their market for weapon industry.

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Kamal Gupta

Mar 31, 2015 05:19pm

Ayub Khan used to refer to Arabs as "camels". Those days Pakistan was the most developed country if you measured from Philippines in the East westward through Middle East- North Africa and even across the entire world in those lattitudes. See what the toxic mixture of religion and politics has done to it.

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fajar

Mar 31, 2015 05:24pm

Pakistan is still paying the price of soviet union disintegration. If it involves in Yemen conundrum it will have to pay price for centuries since aftermaths of sectarianism will be catastrophic for our society.

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QUERESHI

Mar 31, 2015 05:42pm

What is the cost of war ? Who is bearing this ? Can we afford this ? Any inflow of funds at this stage only goes to line the pockets of top Army brass. Why give them an opportunity ?

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Mar 31, 2015 05:54pm

And there is a reason why the elections were rigged and Nawaz Sharif became the PM and Imran khan did not.

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raman

Mar 31, 2015 05:55pm

@sheikh there is a sense in what you are talking. But it has already taken colour of sectarian conflict

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Really

Mar 31, 2015 05:56pm

@sheikh Let the Arabs fight their own wars. Why is Saudi Arabia being the largest importer of weapon needs any assistance. Where are they when we need assistance to fight terrorism? Not even a word of condemnation from any Arab country when APS happened. It is time to wake up.

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Vijay

Mar 31, 2015 06:15pm

I don't think Saudi's were requesting Sharif they, the Saudi's, were ordering him. Sharif has no choice but to comply.

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Zak

Mar 31, 2015 06:46pm

Be a mediator, not a participant. Show grit.

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Al Snow

Mar 31, 2015 06:52pm

@sheikh Because it is not that simple. Yemen crisis is a "Civil War" that has a sectarian element that cannot be put aside. Why is KSA and other GCC nations getting involved? Are they threatened by these rebels? Was UN Security Council/General Assembly/OIC session calling for intervention in Yemen. No sir, KSA and GCC got involved due to sectarian reasons, and Pakistan cannot afford that. KSA has enough $$$ to buy a mercenary army from anywhere.

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Atiq

Mar 31, 2015 07:07pm

I do not agree with the author about US helping Saudia, i live in US and follow politics here closely,US has a total hands off policy in this war and is secretely advising Saudia to stay away from aggression citing their own experiences in other areas where they are fighting.Saudis do not know what they are getting into no conflict could be solved by airstrikes and ground troops will result in attacks inside the saudi arabia which could be disatrous for muslim Ummah.Saudia should never involve itself directly with any fighting or we will loose saudia as we know it today,They sould have the policy like switzerland and stay nonaligned with any conflict due to the location of holiest places that are located inside it.Pakistan should never become part of any other wars for atleast years until we have solved our own crises and develop ourself we are poorest and corrupted country there is a lot to be done here,and please understand our soldiers lives matter also as well as other countries.

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Anwar Ahmad

Mar 31, 2015 07:09pm

Let us not shoot ourselves in the foot by participating in this mess. Stand clear. Be a mediator. That's it!

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V PRAKASH

Mar 31, 2015 07:14pm

Once you already have so much enemies around all the corners and still accumulating more and more (I do not know whether U.S. is your enemy or friend) god only can save Pakistan.

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Naseer

Mar 31, 2015 07:38pm

Saudi Arabia attacked Yemen. Pakistan, let the Saudis do the dirty work themselves. Stay out.

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Pmahmud

Mar 31, 2015 07:46pm

Pakistan needs to be pragmatic and practical. Nobody is seeking mediation, neither Iran or Saudi Arabia. Pakistan has bigger economic ties with Arabs than Iran. The gas pipeline proposal came in the last month of PPP government without financial closure. It did not go anywhere because of sanction. Iran has a strong lobby in Pakistan and so does Saudi Arabia. At the end of day there is no free lunch.

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sidney

Mar 31, 2015 07:46pm

@AsR Right on! The Saudis can offer funds to Pakistan but the internal stability will be a casualty

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kamran

Mar 31, 2015 07:48pm

This would be dumbest decision that Pakistani leadership can ever make, if they get involved in this conflict. Stay away.

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kamran

Mar 31, 2015 07:53pm

Pakistan's Army in no ones mercenary. It serves Pakistan and people of Pakistan alone. period.

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Ahmed Saeed

Mar 31, 2015 07:55pm

Even if Saudia has any ingress in Pakistan, the present regime in Pakistan to stay away from the conflict. Pakistan can simply not take any chance. Prime Minister of Pakistan has business stakes in Saudia and will do his utmost to use the card of religious parties but any misadventure would be suicidal.

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Faisal

Mar 31, 2015 08:06pm

Are you with us or against us!!! Pakistan has faced that question before and once again it is making the same mistake and being pushed into a conflict. Once again the nation will bear the brunt of this move by the Pakistani Govt.

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alihbilgrami@msn.com

Mar 31, 2015 08:36pm

For God's sake let us keep out of Yemen. It will only divert us from fighting our own internal war.

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Farrukh Munir

Mar 31, 2015 08:36pm

All these points are valid but that doesn't mean that we have to become part of an aggression against a sovereign state like Yemen because Saudis have decided to attack their neighbour.

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Farrukh Munir

Mar 31, 2015 08:41pm

Our leadership should put Pakistan first when they decide about supporting Saudi Arabia. If anyone attacks Saudi Arabia then we must support them fully but attacking another country is a different matter altogether

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anony

Mar 31, 2015 08:54pm

This should not even be up for debate. We CANNOT get involved militarily in any other country. We NEED to maintain good relations with Both S.Arabia as well as Iran. If any of these countries don't like it, so be it. But we should not sacrifice our soldiers for others cause.

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Adil

Mar 31, 2015 08:58pm

Pakistan's sending troops in Yemen would certainly create sectarian unrest within itself, given, there's already enough sectarian extremism prevailing. The question is: Will KSA or any other muslim ally be willing to help Pakistan if, as a result, an extremist group emerges?

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ali

Mar 31, 2015 09:02pm

The $1.5 B given to Pakistan was a sort of bribe given to rulers to take dictation from SA. The rulers should assess what will happen if Pakistan takes sides not forgetting that Pakistan shares a long border with Iran alongside Baluchistan which is already a troubled area.There are other countries helping SA besides hey have there own forces which hopefully are not wearing bangles and can fight, it is their proxy war let them fight it.

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Haider

Mar 31, 2015 09:03pm

Iran has never been true friend of Pakistan, in fact iran has is ally and friend of India, it along with Afganistan have acted and voted against Pakistan in OIC on Kashmir and other issues, they are the voice and vote of India. Saudi Arabia on the other hand is among a small group of countries like Turkey,China and Jordan who have stood by and helped Pakistan in it many hours of need. The changing line of alliances in Middle East is between Iran and Saudi Arabia, what can Pakistan expect from or owe to Iran? Pakistan should standby Saudi Arabia in its hour of need, it need not take part in fighting but a army division based in the south along the Yeman border as a guard force would be a rather risk free commitment.

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Madan

Mar 31, 2015 09:14pm

There is no alternative to siding with KSA in this conflict as Pakistanis are heavily indebted to Saudi Arabia for flow of free money whenever Pakistan needs it.It is also the time for Saudi Arabia to test the friendship of Pakistan.Let us see which way the wind blows in different views prevalent between the Pakistan Government and the people of Pakistan.

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Ijaz

Mar 31, 2015 09:24pm

Pakistan has consistently followed a flawed foreign policy. Because our leaders have little faith in their own people they have followed the policy of the begging bowl. Simply put: Pakistan cannot exist without foreign aid ergo, policy has been about maximising the income from aid. The politics of the donor is irrelevant, so countries as disparate as the USA, KSA and China have become the major donors in Pakistan, and we have created a culture of financial dependency. The counterpoint to this is also simple: nations can never thrive on the basis of overseas remittances and aid. At some point the cycle has to be broken and we must learn to trust in the hard work, ingenuity and skills of our people. It is not an easy transition but a painful medicine that at some stage must be taken if we wish to create a forward looking progressive Pakistan envisaged by Jinnah. Let us start today - ignore Saudi requests and bear the consequences and ultimately rewards.

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CYRUS

Mar 31, 2015 09:34pm

@AsR You are overreacting. Good logic. Bad diplomacy.

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Aaqil

Mar 31, 2015 09:54pm

@AsR Cost the begging bowl ? But our current rulers have long ago broken the begging bowl. Don't they claim as such ?

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Haider Rehman

Mar 31, 2015 09:58pm

If Pak has to fight, fight with drones. Not only will they be tested, there will be almost no life loss on part of Pakistan

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Muzaffar Ali

Mar 31, 2015 10:02pm

"We control our choices, but we do not control the consequences." The consequences of joining the fight will be far reaching and beyond our control.

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Pankaj

Mar 31, 2015 10:23pm

@Haider can you tell why this war? Is Yemen a threat to any of its neighbors? This will definitely destroy many things and will get widened as ground intervention is inevitable. And then the equation changes.

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S. A. Hyder, Ph.D.

Mar 31, 2015 10:29pm

@sheikh Yemen did not invade Saudi Arabia. It is Saudi Arabia who invaded a sovereign country. They should mind their own business and stop bullying their neighbours. Their petrodollars do not give them the right to destroy other countries. Only the Super Powers like US an Russia have that God-given right !!!

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CYRUS

Mar 31, 2015 10:30pm

@Harris What sacrifices have Pakistanis ever made? You're dreaming. The Pakistan Army should have fought the Russians in Afghanistan directly and defeated them. That is not what was done. Pakistanis choose proxies to fight for them. If you had fought Russia there would have been no Afghan refugees crowding in. The US and NATO would have reorganized Afghanistan with your help.

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Mar 31, 2015 10:32pm

If the government sends the army to "Saudi" Arabia, the Pakistani public will come out on streets in protest.

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nasik

Mar 31, 2015 10:35pm

A superpower like Pakistan should intervene imediately, then there will be peace once and for all.

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Ramesh

Mar 31, 2015 10:45pm

How can Pakistan, an oil dependent country with neither historical or economic clout play "mediator"? Beats me.

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faraz

Mar 31, 2015 11:07pm

The poll should have been should Pakistan stay neutral in this conflict... the question has been asked in such a way that a certain answer is deemed to get majority of the votes

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Fazal Karim.

Mar 31, 2015 11:28pm

We should stay neutral and play mediator role to bring Saudi Arabia and Iran closer. I would go further and request Ulmas and intelligentsia of Iran, syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia,Yeman,Egypt, UAE , Pakistan, Indonesia etc to sit together and sort out irritant portions in Shia and Sunni schools of thought to achieve permanent goodwill and peace.

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Muhammad Kashif

Apr 01, 2015 12:47am

It is very strange that custodian of the Holiest place for Muslims playing such a hideous role in Yemen crisis.

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Ragu

Apr 01, 2015 12:55am

The US papers already are reporting that Pakistan will send ground troops. If a nation elected leaders through some form of people's choice, we would not have this much mess in the middle-east. When GUNS are used to take over by a ruler, GUNS will also be used to take down a ruler. Just because western democracies are not liked, it does not mean a form of selecting rulers based on people's choice should be rejected.

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jabbar Khoso

Apr 01, 2015 01:04am

YOUR COMMENT Pakistan should away from this conflict and should play a sensitive role between muslim countries.

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Reality Check

Apr 01, 2015 01:09am

This is not a shia sunni fight as is commonly perceived. If it were to be Shia Sunni fight, then why the forces of Sunni Abdullah Saleh are allying with Shiite Houthis. They want the government, just like the Hadi Mansour.

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Shahpur

Apr 01, 2015 01:24am

@Zain Tell PM to create jobs for Pakistanis in Pakistan, so they dont have to go to these Arab countries and be abused, insulted and disgraced by these Arabs.

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Dr. Salaria, Aamir Ahmad

Apr 01, 2015 01:29am

Money walks and money talks. How can beggars be choosers?

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the concerned

Apr 01, 2015 01:58am

Why neutral? Has Saudia ever remained neutral when Pakistan was in trouble.....as the writer himself admits. Dear Sir, you have to give sometimes when you take all the times.

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MAlvi

Apr 01, 2015 05:22am

It will be hard for Pakistan to stay neutral; Nawaz recently received a gift of 1.5 billion dollars from his Saudi friends.

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MAlvi

Apr 01, 2015 05:32am

No body seems to be looking at the bigger picture. There is no true democracy in Muslim countries. Some like Saudi Arabia are outright kingdoms. We should focus on converting these kingdoms to democracies. Can you imagine how much Saudi government, with all its resources, could do for its people, if it was a democracy. In order for Muslims to progress, these oil rich kingdoms should become democracies. The present crisis is all about saving one kingdom at the cost of killing so many innocent muslims.

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Tariq Nawaz

Apr 01, 2015 07:00am

I am not sure if NS has the vision and calibre to make that decision !!!!

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mike hasan USA

Apr 01, 2015 07:10am

Nawaz cannot refuse Saudis. They bailed him out & have played a key role in getting him back in where he is now! So time to payback.Simple as that.

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Rajendra Tiwari

Apr 01, 2015 07:35am

Money not only talks but also walks! If Saudis pour enough money in the pot, Pakistan will walk to their side.

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khan

Apr 01, 2015 07:58am

Pakistani army should go, crush the rebels and proove to everyone that they are the best army in the world. Common Nawaz, for once do what is right for the country.

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amir

Apr 01, 2015 08:29am

I think lets stop beating about the bush. Lets declare ourselves an integral part of any country that tells us what to do. If Jinnah had known the calibre of decision makers/managers eventually to rule the country-Pakistan most probably would'nt have been created............. !

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Syed Husain

Apr 01, 2015 08:32am

@sheikh How about the Arab nations demanding that the legitimately elected parliament of Egypt be reinstated as well?

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Doniya

Apr 01, 2015 08:50am

Sooner or later Pakistan will end up in IS or talibans hand the way Sharif government is going. Imran Khan said Pakistan should not join arab conflict but sharif is so close to saudia arabia he has business there in saudi arabia too. Pakistan is going down big time. Wake up Pakistani sleeping government wake up and think for Pakistanis first we are dying with hunger

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Saif

Apr 01, 2015 09:44am

Whether or not Pakistan takes part, it has already lost ...

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vin

Apr 01, 2015 10:07am

Proud Pakistani - You won't be so proud after civil war in your country. This will break your country, if you side with KSA. Think!

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Zafar

Apr 01, 2015 12:30pm

@sheikh Legitimate? That is not for the Saudis or anyone in Pakistan to decide if the Government in Yemen is legitimate or not. It is for Yemenis to decide whether they want a Saudi puppet governemtn or not.

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Be+

Apr 01, 2015 09:12pm

Who is killing whom and why? I am not able to understand. whole of this regioon has become mess. I think it is better for Pakistan not to indulge in this mess.try to conveince both natiins peacefully.

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Abdur Rahim

Apr 02, 2015 01:57am

Pakistan has taken right decission on joining Soudi led anti-millitant operation in order to bring peace and preserve soudi's objectives as terrorism is a major issue all over the world.

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HABIB

Apr 04, 2015 02:54pm

We must understand that the Yemen issue is not Shia Sunni conflict its just as terrorist as Taliban rebels were approaching Islamabad so the Yemen rebel. We must not take them just as Shia we have to look them as same as Taliban are for Pakistan and Pakistan army doing operation to clean them up. SO taking arms against Govt. is not acceptable against any Govt. if Taliban are terrorist for the world so the Houthi rebel are for Yemen and it Govt.

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Muhammad Faheem

Apr 07, 2015 07:59pm

We cannot afford to join the Saudi-Yemen war. Also see my article of 28 March in the Frontier Post Peshawar

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