OH NO. By the way, why DID Raheel agreed to lead the coalition? that is a bad decision for Pakistan. Why don't Pakistani think-tanks really consider the consequences? Raheel, after retirement, should be an advisor and focus on Pakistan security.

He proposed that all important Islamic countries come together to form a "coalition of peace" in order to resolve their issues "rather [than] forming a controversial military alliance".

Makes complete sense! Peace is what we need today! But question is where and how will we get it?

Best thing for Iran is not to join the alliance.

Every country has the right to exercise it own interest the same way when Iran sign deal with India in its largest interest without paying any attention to Pakistan's concerns.

Unnecessary Alliance. Pakistan should focus on development, regional integration and foolproof security.

Iran is 100% correct.

Every country has its own interests, Pakistan will not object if Iran leads a coalition force of India, Bhutan and Bangladesh.

"But [that] did not indicate that Iran was satisfied with this decision or it had accepted the same," A diplomatic way of asking: "Do we understand well? Kindly back your intentions clearly with some gesture." Some gestures will follow from Pakistan's side, as guarantee that the coalition is not against Iran, but meant to cool off tension, so that the formation of "coalition of peace" is possible in future. Looks like they also see Pakistan as key for that coalition.

Pakistan should refrain from becoming any separate alliance of Muslims. Rather it should be a part of all muslims alliance..

I am also not happy with Raheel Shareef decision but Iran doesn't need to be worried because we have no problem with them regarding their relations with India etc. I have no idea why Arab countries and Iran love us so much that instead of taking us on there side they try to keep us from other side.

satisfaction of iran is not our concern as the iran-india deal is not pakistan's concern

Obviously this was bound to happen and this is a serious turn for which both Raheel Sharif and the govt are equally responsible.Rewards and personal gains have been placed over and above the national interests.

Where was Iran's when they signed biggest deal with India and ignored Pakistan concerns. Every nation has right choose path for their benefit.

We are getting embroiled in other's quagmire. We need to correct priorities as taking side in current situation may have far reaching consequences.

@KHALID YOUSAFZAI (UK) Iran in not correct to ask this at all. Otherwise we should asked Iran many more things than this.

Of course it would be.

@TAriq agree totally

Iran should be happy that head of the coalition force is a man from friendly country. Iran now can join coalition force to crush the militants.

It is a touchy issue indeed. However, Pakistan would be well advised to clarify the role of the Coalition and also ensure a goal is to unite the Ummah and definitely bring Iran into the coalition. There will be no peace without Saudi and Iran reconciling.

@TAriq "... when Iran sign deal with India in its largest interest without...", Sir agree with you 100%, well observed and well said!!

Iran should join the coalition. And if any Islamic coalition is formed then RS probably is the right person.

There you go. This is what I expected. We have stepped into foreign conflict.

I doubt anyone in Pakistan is listening to the words of wisdom.

The money involved has made them deaf and blind to side with the corrupt Saudi regime, so they can continue their tyranny in the Kingdom and around the Middle East.

No one knows objectives of the coalition?Who and how it will decide to use force against whom?, How its finance will be managed in short and long term? ,how the modern weapon shall be acquired to combat terrorism? whats sure, it will not be used on the basis of Sect, region, financial contribution?how it will succeed when there are are huge ideological difference between Muslim Countries?.Will it replace USA forces in Afghanistan and Iraq if these Muslim countries request?Will the force assist Palestine?Will this force shall play role in Kashmir?.Iran Correctly said, we need "coalition of peace" that we can bring peace in Afghanistan, Iraq,Syria,Kashmir and Palestine. Pakistan should focus on its independent policy rather work under pressure of any country.

Iran should have expressed its reservations officially long ago. Pakistan must listen to Iran and address all its reservations.

Short-term benefits outweigh the long-term consequences for Pakistan, tends to be the mode of thinking in this government.

I will trust Iranians before I will trust the Saudis and their Gulf cousins.

You will be kind enough to give the details of Iran,s role in Iraq, Yemen,Syria,Bahrain, Afghanistan,Pakistan and not mention others.

Good to know that Iran has raised itself finally!

@TARIQ " when Iran sign deal with India in its largest interest without paying any attention to Pakistan's concerns."

But Pakistan kept quite that time ...!! Why ?

When Iran is not part of the coalition it has no locus-standi to question on coalition chief. Anyway Pakistan has not appointed Sharif, it has just given NOC to an individual to pursuit his career in another place. Iran’s comment in unwarranted.

Pakistan is also not satisfied with Iran's defence ties with India. Iran should keep its Kulbushans to itself.

Bad move by Gen Raheel

Neighbours can never be changed! Pakistan should never join this war

@Waaris TAriq "... when Iran sign deal with India in its largest interest without...", Sir agree with you 100%, well observed and well said!!

Gentlemen, the Iran and India Deal is economic in nature not military alliance against anyone. Your comarision is incorrect. India and Iran has right to explore alternative trade routes to reach Afghanistan & Central Asia.You can block your land route access to India but you have no right to ask other sovereign countries not trade with each other

@TAriq Agreed with your comments. further consider Irani role that indian spy kalboton yado and other spy had used irani soul for terror activity in pakistan

The PML-N has put Pakistan in an embarrassing position......why ?

Few members of the Saudi-led 39-nation military alliance have also expressed their reservations about General Raheel's appointment as the head of military alliance.

Iran and Arab conflict is historical. Pakistan should go ahead for this golden opportunity to lead this Islamic multi-national alliance.

Pakistan should work for peace and not for war. This country is suffered much due to its rulers decisions by fighting proxy wars for others interests. This time no to such war on yemen which is suffering from two years of continuous blockade by air , sea and land by saudi led arab military alliance. Pakistan should not be part of blood shedding of innocent Yemeni muslims.

Pakistan also concered about :

(1) Irans strategic partneship with India (2) Iran hosting RAW for terror attacks in Pakistan (3) Iran trying to build its fifth column in Pakistan (thanks Pakistanis for lnot letting this happen) (4) Iran taking Pakistanis to fight for them in Syria

I am all for neutrality, but its a bit rich for the Iranian to take this approach

And now it begins.

Gen. Raheel is diminishing his perceived stature and respect in the eyes of the Pakistani public by remaining silent on the matter.

The Islamic Republic of Iran and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan are not on the same turf in this crucial case which in essence stems from the centuries old sectarian configuration of the Islamic world which is not going to be resolved easily in the near future.

Can anybody Ask Iran, Why he supporting Bashar Al Asad?

Killed Thousand of Muslim in Syria.

Iran didnot asked Pakistan before making Chah bahar port with india.

Pakistan should not take sides, it should work for peace in middle east rather than wars. Raheel sharif is not legally allowed to join any government or any other foreign venture by the Pakistan law for two years. Generals should not indulge Pakistan into foreign wars, it will divide the whole nation on sectarian bases and the result would be bad for country as well state institutions.

Pakistan should charge money from Saudis for its military services to them. There should be no free lunches.

well said by iran i think so

Any further broader proximity with Russia is now out of question too.

@Rashid India and iran are both non alligned countries. So no iran india bangladesh bhutan alliance or any other allaince for that matter will happen

Pakistan is a multi cultural multi sectarian and multi ethnicity country. And it'll never act anything against any groups sects or culture. Iran is our Muslim brother and hope Raheel Sharif will try and use his intellect to unite the whole Muslim Umaah. Pakistan zindabad. Brotherhood Live long

@Premsan whats your views regarding kalboshahn yadoh and other terrorist used irani land from last 10-years

If there is a military alliance then there is no person better than Raheel Sharif. We know it and the world knows it. Thats why all the players that have set middle east on fire are now worried about what Raheel Sharif will do and how he will upset their designs for the region.

I agree with Iran. I am extremely concerned about this appointment.

@imtiaz Hydari = Current Pakistani regime in power has failed to understand the whole issue. A smart move on the part of Saudi Arabia to drum up a military coalition against its rivals, but what is Pakistan seeking from it? Is our FO so dumb and naïve that it believes ‘joining the alliance will not affect our neutrality' (their recent official statement!) in the region! What kind of foreign policy advisers do we have today? Or is it necessary for Pakistan to keep up its tradition of acting as a mercenary to fight other nations' wars? A foolish move in every sense of the term that goes against the fundamental national interests of Pakistan. It is foolish to compare an economic cooperation pact (India-Iran pact on Chah Bahar) with joining a Saudi-led military alliance! That the so-called military alliance is yet non-existent and its details have not been spelled out, notwithstanding. Saudi Arabia only needs soldiers of other nations to fight for them. Simple as that!

@Dr. Salaria, Aamir Ahmad

Bangladesh , Afganistan, and now Iran . How do you explain this in terms of " centuries old sectarian configuration of the Islamic world." a term used by you.!!

I think as a neutral party India's Muslim Leader who is also Minister of State Foreign Affairs, can play a role to bring all four together. Otherwise there is no end to this as you rightly said. India is the only choice being friend of all three countries .

@Prateik "Pakistan should charge money from Saudis for its military services to them. There should be no free lunches." I get free lunches quite often, and offer free dinners or free rides to them all the same. I don't charge money, they don't as well.

What is the agenda , how it is going to operate is anybody 's guess. So far it is a phantom force just on the papers. Such an important step, but our parliament was not made part of it.

Why has the resolution adopted by Parliament to stay neutral in the Middle-East conflicts been overruled ?

@Sky Russians aren't as immature as you think, Russians need us to reach warm waters and to develop influence in Afganistan, more than we need them. These global powers have a much broader vision than of what your kind self and I think... they have different preferences at different regions. If you think they're fighing in Syria to help Iran, it's an overstatement. They're just increasing their influence in the region to rip NATO and the US. We as Pakistanis can rephrase your statement as: Any further Russian broader proximity with Iran is now out of question too. Hope you understand!!!

I personally take it positive, In future Raheel Sharif will be the person who will unite Muslim Ummah. It is already divided nowadays.

@Mahmood not in the eyes of 95%. 5 % yes, for sure.

A great mistake of Pakistani government that is perhaps a result of 'personal relations' of the current government with Saudi dictators. Before even entering into the debate of self-interest and what Iran says about it, I look at the lack of clarity on the purpose of this alliance. For sure it is nothing to do with fighting ISIS and it has loud signatures of sectarianism. If the alliance is used in Yemeni war (likely purpose), it will be Pakistani partnership in the crime against humanity. It is only going to escalate the problems amongst the Muslims. Pakistan is unnecessarily jumping in it as if it does not already have a whole lot of problems.

we concerned too...

Iran stands alone and stands proud.

Isn't it strange and fishy that Saudi Arabia recognized the most deadliest enemy of Muslims, Israel who is torturing and killing Muslims in Palestine since several decades, is talking about fighting terrorism whereas this is no more any secret that Daesh, ISIS etc are supported by Saudi government and the injured Daesh and ISIS terrorists are treated in the Hospitals of Israel. ISIS as per one clip available on social Media by Hillary Clinton, means Israeli secret intelligence service is actually formed by USA and Israel whom Saudi Arabia has accepted her masters.

Hope, Iran & Saudi Arab come together.

Peace without force? Are we kidding ourselves? Israel also advocates " peace". Have you seen her tactics? You can't sit home and wish for peace. I support such alliance and hope that it becomes a mighty force against all forms of terror and suppression, this is very Islamic. Simply my two cents!

It was expected,BY THE WAY WHAT IRAN IS GIVING TO PAKISTAN? COOPERATION WITH INDIA VIA CHABHAR? AND WHAT SAUDIS GAVE TO PAKISTAN? HIGHEST AWARD TO MODI....

Pakistan should go for Preventive diplomacy with their govs and Should Influence These Countries through public diplomacy,The efforts all Muslim states citizens in Pakistan,must be thoroughly appreciated and Encounraged,

@pashtoon nice thought

Did Iran cared about Pakistan concerns when Iran-India signed a deal? Answer is NO. Therefore, it is unfair to criticize Pak-Suidi deal.

So countries like Iran and Iraq with Syria and Yemen are not Muslim states ?

And we are concerned over Kalbhoshan Yadev's network in Iran.

This can/will make Yemen like situation inside Pakistan. Raheel Sharif should not lead sectarian army for sectarian peace in Pakistan.

@Kiran To start with resolving old conflicts like Kashmir and palistine.

@merit Unfortunately the regional integration is via SAARC but India by not resolving the UN Kashmir plebiscite has stopped the progress of all the nations in the region, including its own and its people.

We dont listen or lear do we? and then we wonder why our neighbors are not happy with us. the following statement was more then enough for pakistan to stay out of this:

"Pakistan had initially found itself in the crosshairs of Middle Eastern politics as Saudi Arabia named it as part of its newly formed military alliance of Muslim countries meant to combat terrorism, without first getting its consent."

Iran should express its reservations and leave it at that. Iran never consulted Pakistan on signing chabbar port deal with India nor did they assist Pakistan in catching the 'kulbushan yadev's entering Pakistan for terrorism via Iran.

The reasons for Arab league never achieving anything peaceful resolution or solving crisis in region was due to the very same members were involved in the crisis by fueling it and funding terrorist .

Just like Arab league never achieved anything this coalition will suffer same suit.

General Raheel, should visit Iran and allay their fears. Gen raheel already made his appointment conditional with the saudi's that he will be allowed to mediate between Saudi and Iran for peace.

Any coalition with Saudi Arabia would never be true as they are implicit in regional problems.

Does this coalition mean that Saudi Arabia will get US to leave military presence in region.

@pashtoon only when all Divided Will Be considered for Union,In this military coalition of 39 states,Iran is excluded and GRS should Present this concern to Saudis first,

Overall It is not a An Alliance like NATO,ITS A SAUDI LED,means Saudis can use it for their purpose only...Just like US led Cento, Seato

That means We have problems with Iran and with Syria and All Shitte states..

It would be toughest job For GRS to unite muslim ummah Under Self intetested Alliance....MARK MY WORDS

Any democratic country would first question Saudi led war on poor Yemen before even considering"

Pakistan will regret this move in the years to come.

Lets weigh it in the scale of PAKISTAN FIRST.

one more ally of pak lost just like that. Now India will take full advantage and there's nothing anyone can do about it.

Joining Saudi alliance - what an act of shamelessness.

@Zealot I second you, he is not qualified to unite sir. He has been a General of an army. His job is to side a side to protect an aggression or kill any aggression.

I cannot see any thing peaceful if 39 are together and rest of the Muslim countries are out.

The state we are placed post Afghanistan siding, we cannot afford any siding anymore....

Comparing India- Iran deal with Raheel Saharif appoint is quite hilarious. Iran deal is purely economical . Its their own land. Even Chinese are also working at Chabahar .

@Falcon1, Why are you worried about Pakistan?

Iran itself is damaging the unity by interfering in Yemen and firing mortars into PK.

Iran concerned over Raheel's appointment as head of Saudi-led military alliance: envoy

Raheel Sharif should join the alliance on the condition that Iran is also included in the alliance.

No One Is Answerable To Any One ; But Consequences Of Any Move Speaks It's Self , With In Days Or Years To Come .

This is not good in the longer term of peace and security of the ME and wider islamic world. The hard line KSA is going to make a mess for the world.

Bottom Line: Raheel Sharif will get $1 million and some fame. Pakistan will get $0 and a bad name along with diplomatic problems.. Not a very smart move..

when Iran expect from Pakistan to refrain from this coalition, Pakistan also want Iran to take care of its concerns about activities of RAW in Iran. Kulbushan had used Iranian soil to enter Pakistan on fake documents.

Has Iran ever taken into account Pakistan's position when they struck deals with India? Wasn't the Indian spy working from Iran? We will do what's in our interest

@CK : It is tit for tat. Iran signed with India because Pakistan signed with China. What is the problem here??

@haider : Pakistan is also not satisfied with Iran's defence ties with India. Iran should keep its Kulbushans to itself.

BTW, where is Kulbhushan and what is the update on him?. High time for a Kulbhushan statement by Sartaj Aziz..

Iran doesn't understand the art of building civilisations is cooperating with the rich and boosting trade not saying I will keep my respect respect doesn't make money. China is an example

@MA Pakistan is free to sign deals with India and Iran that are mutual benefit. No one stopping that.

We need good relationships with our neighbours

@Ahmed Hasan Well said. I hoped that General will keep the interest of Pakistan above his.

Why iran objecting now. They allied them self with Moody to compete with CPEC at chahbehar. Did Pakistan raised any objection.

@Guest101 It is not Iran, it is KSA that is killing Yemenis.

@malik humayoun : It is more than a year and you have not done anything on Kulbhushan.

Iran did not have to say the obvious. But it did finally made it public. What a sorry state of affairs it is that decisions even of international importance are not thoroughly and comprehensively debated and decided in the Parliament.

@Sectarian peace Pls do not compare Yemen with Pakistan for the sake of your love with Iran. Be a Pakistani first and respect the GHQ's approval if not FO.

Raheel can work and should work for Pakistan his home country.

Being a large and truly independent Muslim country, I used to have great respect for Iran. However, in recent years they've been going out of their way to side with India to Pakistan's detriment.

In my books, it's Pakistan first. Therefore I don't care what Iran thinks says or does. They're a regional trouble maker anyway.

Can one separate out military and economical alliance, really? If Iran has strong economic alliance with India in the form of Port (long term), it clearly forms indirect military alliance.

@Ishfaq Ahmed Bughio Suggest Iran form coalition of peace with their buddies in Northern Alliance and India. Don't dictate to Pakistan.

@Princess why should Pakistan care about what Iran thinks? Why to satisfy them? Did they think of Pakistan when signing deal with India?

@Ahmed Hasan should be done and will be done

@Rashid Iran is Pakistan's neighbor; Pakistan should keep and maintain an equidistant policy with both the countries(SA and Iran) for the sake of establishing a good-hope.

People are assuming that Muslim alliance. No one is mentioning India. Note that India has 20 Crores ( 200 millions ) Muslims. How can you forget India ?

India can lead this alliance, if required.

@Armaan "satisfaction of iran is not our concern as the iran-india deal is not pakistan's concern" Please remember Iran is our next door neighbor you can change your friend but not neighbor we have already two of our borders unstable and we do not afford another disturbed border with Iran secondly you cannot compare this so-called alliance with Iran and India deal which have totally different impacts last but not least this so-called alliance is formed to crush any imminent danger to Arab Monarchies and it will be used against fellow Muslims as it is being used against innocent Yemeni Muslims it is not formed to tackle Israel or USA and more importantly Iran has very stable and strong institutions whereas Arabs Monarchies will not survive long

When Iran become strategic partner of India did they consider Pakistan concerns?

The purpose of this alliance can be anything but to fight terrorism.

Pakistan should stay away from their matters. I don't think why we think that far as even our own country is in hottub??

Concerns are obvious and honest. Alliance isn't for constructive purpose it's rather distructive. Pakistan should avoid this.

Very disappointed with RS.

@TAriq Just excellent, comparing what with what?

Iran and Iraq should be allowed to join. Saudi and Iran are sadly both responsible for proxy wars in the region, many times it isn't just Iran

Who cares, you Iranians never satisfied no matter what, we feel same when you make such deals with India, Afghanistan and US.

@merit Pakistan hasn't joined the alliance; General Sharif took the position on his own after consulting with and getting NOC

did Iran address Paks concerns about Indian engagement in Chabbar or RAW agents entering from Iran into Pak e.g Mr Yadav??

@Vallabh Patel India is a butcher in Kashmir and Manipur in fact India should be pressured by this alliance due to its terrorism against Muslims

Iran has,unfortunately been interfering in its neighborhood- Syria, Bahrain, Iraq and of course, Pakistan. Saudis meanwhile have helped Pakistan whenever we needed them without asking for anything in return.

Iran supports Yemen . Iran Yemen and Syria backed by Russia , are all in the circle. Saudi supported by us and now Pakistan . Wil only be making more enemies, it's not a worthy decision to support some one else war when our home is in turmoil

@M. Emad such as?

Iran's reservation is understandable but why Raheel agreed to lead the coalition is not clear. It's a bad decision.

@Akram yeah ur right , we should go against Iran , let the neighbours benifit from this

Muslim NATO will benefit those muslim countries where chances of instability and insurgencies high. Where Western supper powers can exploit their instability for their benefits. Iran does not have that kind of instability. So they not much worried. Learn from past and act accordingly.

@Vallabh Patel Must be joking? which planet do you live on? Just see how modi treats muslims in kashmir and you are dreaming of leading Muslim world. Muslims in india are the most backward and downtrodden people on the face of the earth, truly second class citizens.

@ABCD - " Iran now can join coalition force to crush the militants."

the problem with that statement is - half the militants are Saudi backed and the rest are Iran backed? Whom would they "crush"?

@KHALID YOUSAFZAI (UK) how exactly?

@TAriq Iran signed the deal with India when you refused to extend the pipeline. Iran had reacted to its national interest,

@Falcon1 .KSA is not like other nations governments.They have their own set of rules as Kingdom Alhamdolillah ,you like it or not,but under no justification you cannot call them corrupt.They are serving Muslim pilgrims in most passionate way,recently they compromise and almost resolve the irritants through talks with Iranian brothers regarding Hajj policy,and soon inshallah relations between Iran & KSA will normalise. As regards reservation about job of General(Rtd)Raheel Sharif in KSA,it's nothing new,hundreds of retired persons working in KSA, it's their free personal choices.

@SaiF zulfiqar, If Iran was asked to join and Iran decided to join then it will be a very good step.

Iran had been informed of the move, but it is not satisfied with the decision, Ambassador Honardoost says.

Pakistan should do what is best for Pakistan. Iranians do not consult us about anything they do with a third country which is their right especially forging close relationship with india, a country which is suppressing the muslims in kashmir in the most horrible way.

@TAriq military alliance is not same as trade Alliance. Iran has made a trade deal with India not a miliary alliance. So, if we make trade deals with Saudi Arabia (which we do), Iran will and should have no objection. Same way we should have no objection with them if it makes trade deal with India. On the other hand, if Iran ever make a miliary alliance with India (which it will never do), then we should and will object.

Clearly Raheel Sharif is not liked by Iranians and probably true the other way around as well. Ridiculous but true!!

Every country in the world is against terrorism, which country is not, can a reader name one? so why only selected Islamic majority nations are in this selected group?

@talib satti "Why iran objecting now. They allied them self with Moody to compete with CPEC at chahbehar. Did Pakistan raised any objection" Chabahar and Gwadar are two commercial projects we can always compete commercially but military alliance is not a commercial activity moreover Chabahar or Gwadar project are not against the fellow Muslims but this so-called alliance is therefore comparison between two is not at all fair and / or logic and remember those who are supporting this alliance will one day lament its formation as it will be used against their own favorites

This is exactly what Imran Khan had warned against.

I wish Raheel sheriff reads all the comments. He can decide how the Pakistani Public will treat him at a later stage. Gen Raheel!!! you are lucky to have so much of the public opinion Sir.

This is ironical gesture from Iran, it is deemed as an effort to meddling in Pakistan's internal affairs, we should not entertain such statements unless they do carry a substantial logical values.

@Common man "When Iran become strategic partner of India did they consider Pakistan concerns?" strategic partner in what sense I ran and India did not sign any military pact they are involved in economical and commercial partnership

This is purely internal matter of Pakistan. Iran need not meddle.

@TAriq Was what Iran signed with India in its interest that you allude to a defense pact with so many other regional forces leaving Pakistan pointedly out or was it a matter pertaining to trade and economics? You are free to have your views however prejudiced or convoluted but don't distort facts. How it can be Islamic alliance or Islamic NATO with at least 3 Islamic countries out Iran, Iraq and Syria. Leaving them out, it is a brazen attempt to divide Muslims, not unite them.

They just open another front to fight, like they are winning on others.

At least this will show the nation that money talks and people in power are selfish and just thinks of their own status and personal gains. Care about the nation and its people are secondary

@Armaan You need to be clear in your head that Iran India deal is not a defense pact. India Iran deal relates to matters of trade & commerce which Pakistan has already with many Arab countries and which Iran has never objected to. What is glaringly objectionable here is that Saudi Arabia is an aggressor against a Muslim country Yemen and has formed a coalition of 34 Muslim countries leaving at least 3 Muslim countries out Iran, Iraq & Syria. What does that mean one that the coalition has been formed against those 3 countries and two that they are not Muslim and so out of this Islamic alliance?

Did Iran ask from pak, when they signed several projects with India? Every country has right to make their on decisions considering best of their interests.

Why Iran is taking help of India to built their Chabhar port, We don't need to take the dictation from any body, We know what is important in the interest of our country.

Iran has very valid point and Pakistan shall stay away from controversial alliances especially that are led by non-democratic governments.

@TAriq Well said

@Amir khan : Iran stands alone and stands proud.

There are also 180 million proud Muslims in India who stand for a progressive and peaceful society.

@MA because our government are working for usa and because of sanctions we had to turn away from iran. We were doing trade with iran some time back but because of American pressure and the loans we have taken from them pushed us to severe ties with iran.

@Kiran I can tell you where we won't get it; relying on others to solve our problems, especially those which require a military intervention.

I wish Pakistan had denied General Raheel Sharif permission to head the Saudi led Islamic Military Alliance. It would have signified Pakistan's neutrality in the competition for the leadership of Muslim world between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

Iran is always stand by India.Pakistan and Saudia has historic brotherly relations.I appreciate GEN Raheel will lead Muslim country Alliance.

This is interesting - Iran is concerned with Raheel Sharif leading the alliance but not seems to be concerned with Pakistan joining the alliance.

Why is Pakistan embroiled in other countries controversial matters when it has its own several pending issues yet to solve?

IRAN SHOULD BE THE PART OF THIS ISLAMIC ARMY BLOCK.

@Abbas syed we don't need to be neutral to the parties who ain't neutral to our motherland.
Simple mathematics formula!! Pakistan First..

Iran's concerns are right but this works ways. Pakistan can not just keep taking it friend brother helping them with advanced nuclear tech while it stabs in the back by allowing Indian backed terrorists go on harming Pakistan and making deal with India. Same is true for Afghanistan Palestine UAE and so many Muslim majority countries. Saudi, for whatever reasons, stands by Pakistan most of the time. National interests of Iran n Pakistan are different.

@Rashid . Bangladesh will never join any coalition with Iran.

One question, will Iran stop doing with India for Kashmiri cause? Poor Muslims suffering. If not then you tell me what should Pakistan care?

Why don't Pakistani think before they act Think tanks really consider the consequences

Pakistan and Turkey needs to broker a peace deal between the Saudis , Gulf state and Iran without that there will be no use of forming this collation. Please do not ignore Iran. They are a major power in the region and we need their support. We will run into future conflicts and loads of bloodshed where other middle east countries will be like another Syria. Lets prevent another Syria.. I hope Raheel Sharif is not used to get in future civil wars between Muslim countries.. but is used to de escalate situation.

Money talks.

Did iran ask us before signing deals with India? national interests come first and these Iranians talk of peace with cross border incursions increasing this is a play for power and we should be happy that pakistan is getting a very good position in the alliance. Iran only wants influence for it self why didnt it consider inda deal might hurt us they only care about their country and we should do the same.

With corrupt leaders and corrupt citizens, any country is bound to be doomed and Pakistan is no stranger to corruption.

Justified fear by Iran. Iran has guarded our borders for seventy ( 70 ) years. Do not make Iran our enemy for few ryals for few politicians & generals. KSA is not worth the risk.

Did Pakistan object when Iran started building Chabahar port in collaboration with India ???

it is a political positiveness of the Muslim world to organize a military alliance on the same footing of NATO, that can play a catalyst role to encounter restlessness of the Muslim world. Iran must join it in the collective welfare of ummah.

No need to bring India into this. It is now Raheel Shareef's job to bring the muslim countries together. Iran would be step #1.

Unity is needed among ALL muslim countries.

@TAriq Military co operation & economic co operation is two different issue .

@Kiran The problem is that it is exclusively an Arab coalition and Iran thinks that it is against it. But Iran's friendship is sine qua non for us, and Gen Sharif instead should have been appointed as defense adviser to his own country and not to the new coalition.

Raheel Sharif is joining a 39 Islamic countries alliance and that too after retiring from regular army services. I think there is no reason for any country to get alarmed over this issue. Pakistan has always valued Iran as a close brotherly Muslim country, Pakistan will do all to maintain a good relationship with Iran alongwith all other Muslim countries. Iran should offer to join this Islamic alliance to fight the menace of terror faced by all Muslim countries.

Has Iran done anything lately for Pakistan? Is Iran a Pakistani or an Indian ally? Does Iran have good realtionship with the world including Muslim countries? What's is in Pakistan's interest? Iran or 39 Muslim countries? You be the judge as a patriotic Pakistani!

@Vallabh Patel : Note that India has 20 Crores ( 200 millions ) Muslims.

Well said Sir, and they are also well educated, progressive, peaceful and secular.

@anjum ksa Ok why we are supporting a regime who is killing people in Yemen Syria Iraq Bahrain and beyond.

This is a lose-lose proposition. Stay out of this Saudi hornets' nest.

@MHamza : Pakistan should stay away from their matters.

Too late, General Raheel Sharif has walked into quicksand and is taking Pakistan along..

@Azad kashmir : India should be pressured by this alliance due to its terrorism against Muslims.

Don't be ignorant. I am an Indian Muslim. There are 180 million Muslims living peacefully and happily in India.

By the way Iran spends 5% of what the Saudi and Gulf spend on War machinery. .....makes you wonder.....

Arabs are very good in buying and selling people. Its all about money not about our nation strategic interests.

@Harris Mustafa Thank you well said in few words.

@Logic Right on the spot.

@Abdul Stop fooling yourself and the others. Iran was never invited to this coalition and nor were at least two other Muslim countries Syria & Iraq. Are you suggesting that these deliberately left out Muslim countries should force their entry into this coalition whose very aim is to divide and dissect Islamic world. Watch before you say anything because consequences are to be very grave of this absurdity

It is the professionalism of General Raheel Sharif which makes other worry about otherwise he is retired person and has all the rights to choose a profession for himself.

India cannot sustain its presence in Afghanistan without Irans help. Did they consult us or care about India using Afghan territory to destabilize us?

@CONCERNED the alliance has 41 countries out of 50 muslim states in the world, so 41 are united and the ones don t want to join the alliance because they are allied with India and Israel.

Firstly I think Gen Raheel should not take this job but if Pakistan has to then Raheel must ensure that Iran is taken in too because without Iran there cannot be real peace between Saudi and Iran. Pakistan should get these boys together all for peace and then the alliance may prove to be fruitful for all.

@SID all muslims are brothers, Pakistan and Saudia are two hearts two bodis but one soul

@SHroomish better to loose the lost one, go to stick with 41 muslim countries

we're also concered with terrorist being caught in Pakistan with "iranaian passports". Seen a few incidents recently. Any explanation for that Mr Rohani?

Greetings from U.S.A. Pakistan has a lot in common with Iran and share a long border with it. Saudis and Iranians don't see eye to eye. Pakistan should stay out it and let Saudi Arabia fight its own battles.

@faraz, Did SA or the UAE asked Pakistan about the deals they signed worth over $80 Billions ?

Pakistan and Iran have always enjoyed friendly and fraternal ties free of friction and tension. Pakistan should do what it takes to preserve these relations and not allow the Raheel Sharif issue to leave any negative impact on them. Long term interests of the country must remain intact.

Raheel Sharif leading the coalition is the best case scenario for Iran, under the circumstances. The coalition could not be stopped, so having a man with a balanced view of perspective of Arabs, Non-Arabs, Shias, and Sunnis is a good choice for this position. Iranians talk of peace coalition but have shown no flexibility or initiative. Saudis and Iranians logger heads in OIC, OPEC, UN, etc. Another organization will not change anything.

Gen(R)Raheel Sharif is a smart guy, a true son of a soil. He will bring Iran closer to KSA or at least will give the level best try.

Long live our Pak Armed Forces and Scientist.

Pakistan Zindabad. Love to Gen Raheel Sharif true hero and a honest man. I bet if he runs for Prime minister of Pakistan, it will be a landslide victory. We love you Gen RS and thank you for your service and bringing in peace in Pakistan. Salute!

For the success of the defence alliance Pakistan, Iran, Turkey and SA have to work together, otherwise this alliance will not be more than a dune of shifting sand.

Agree with Iran on this but Iran needs to also play a more positive role here. Both SA and Iran need to get out of Shia Sunni positions and work towards bridging the gaps. The doctrine of hatred needs to be addressed on both sides.

If the intentions of the coalition are as pure as they would like us to believe, did they make even a token effort to include Iran in it. Or is the purpose of the coalition simply to protect and promote Saudi interests. Has Saudia shared their plans with the international community?

Iran should join alliance. A Vote should be taken by all the Muslim countries on joining Iran.

Gen (Rtd) Raheel Sharif is a person of impecible integrity and as a private citizen he is free to chose how he would like to use post retirement life. He is a wise, competent and independent person and he will be a great leader and source of inspiration for all those coalation members under his command. Making baseless speculations only reflect on individual's myopic comprehension of regional geo politics. We are proud of Gen. Sharif he has served his nation with honor , integrity and dignity.

@Syed zafar kazmi u.s.a when divide and monopolization of power become a doctrine that turn dividers into fear from any reconciliation and political oneness.

Another BAD decision by the government to join Saudi coalition. When will our decision makers learn from history? When will they gain the wisdom? The facts remains that Iran is our neighbor and an historical as well as our natural trade, social and defense partner. In foreign policy matters, neighbors are and need to be our highest priority instead of far flung and pie in the sky ventures.

I have very high regards for Mr. Raheel Sharif, based on his track record of local and international alignments. This gentleman is not short of wisdom and courage and he will only do what is in the best interest of the country and otherwise. It will be immature to make judgements and give verdicts, not knowing what he's trying to achieve through this move. Keep calm people, this is Raheel Sharif.

@TAriq , please recall deals India signed with the UAE and SA worth close to $80 billion. The SA led so-called Islamic coalition is the USA and Israeli sponsored group. And our friends in the Arb Worlds are just playing very active and talking puppet. Iran with many of its faults will never bow to their pressure.

I think doing economic with india by Iran is not an issue as china has much more invested in India. it should not be a issue here.

see Briton has billions of trade importing Gas from russia so no propblem at all.

their is a problem with india which will soon realize the significance of Gawadar but their is a stub burn illiterate Modi

which is just a puppet of Ambanees and RSS

but if Iran join an anti pakistan coalition with india would that be accepted and tolerated

common every one know that this a coalition agaisnt Iran by stub-urn saudies. which have ruined Libia, yamen, seyria , and badly installed dictatorship in Egypt and Tunisia undermined the democratic uprising.

Iran is fully justified in its apprehensions and diplomatically astute in letting Pakistan know of it in a peaceful manner. Pakistan will be well advised to deal with this in context of regional peace and long standing harmonious relations with Iran.

Well, Pakistan is into thick of Saudi-Iranian rivalry. Muslim coalition is imaginative. Saudi coalition is real.

In today's Islamic world, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Iran are three strong countries and Raheel Sharif with his exemplary service record can do a lot to bring them closer for stability and propagation of the spirit of Islam

Iran has a golden chance to get out from it's international isolation and better ties among Muslim countries. General Raheel Sharif is a proven commander and a fantastic pick for this alliance. Also, Pakistan has always tried to balance relations with Saudi-Arabia and Iran which is another dimension why he is the perfect choice.

It's time to understand how the world is changing towards what's about to unfold in coming months&years ahead of us.The European block in alliance with its friends must be carefully managing the diplomatic circus behind the scene to ensure there is no repeat of 1973 black gold misuse against the Western powers.

Mostly this kind of experiment is a total disaster due to inward looking self centered individual countries command&leadership structure when it comes to defense services. Such coalitions are mostly cosmetic&in this case too, a few of these couple dozen countries defense services commanders are less likely to toe the line General Raheel Sharif(Designated)for leading Saudi coalition defense services alliance is likely to be an affective alliance that shall be able to produce desired results that is expected of such a Muslim countries alliance.

The world powerful nations will tolerate this alliance for selling their weapons systems for their bottom line benefits nothing more.

@riz That's a commercial port, not a military alliance.

Its unbelievable that a General (R) of such a calibre and stature as him would accept such an appointment . Raheel Sharif is well respected not only in Pakistan but far and beyond.He ought to turn down the controversial offer of the appointment ,in the best interest of Pakistan .He must not listen to our corrupt politicians who are seeking attention and are after point scoring to further their own nefarious designs to fully drain Pakistan's resources.

@Maestro .No Pakistan did not object,instead Iran later wish to connect Chahbahar with Gwadar via road link,as well as rail link,that's in progress,besides TAPI Gas also in progress to which India is also a stake holder,things are not so bad,as seems,all will be normal including relations with India, just wait and see.

@TAriq Iran has been waiting for years to sign the natural gas pipeline deal, but because of US and Saudi pressure, never did.

@MA For decades our country is taking oil from thousands of mikes away for more cost rather than taking it from Iran which would've costed pennies compared to the cost now. This is why, they had to sign a deal with India. Cause, we didn't stand with our neighbor

@MA Unable to differentiate between the economic cooperation and religious coalition

Vision, goals and the scope of this alliance is an open book and well defined, and should not be a reason for Iran to be not satisfied with it. There is no justification to consider it a threat against Iran. Also, General Raheel Shareef is focused on the vision and goals, how he carried out Zarbe Azb. It is difficult to deviate General Raheel & he knows about the consequences and is an expert in risk assessment & management of risk & fight against terrorism.

@Li-En-Ja are you dumb? Giving NOC to a former Chief of Pak Army to join another Military force is JUST for you? Iran has always supported Pak without even thinking of future consequences on the other side Saudi has back stabbed many "Islamic Countries", which are in alliance with Saudi today, many times. Saudi is talking about Afghanistan, Syria and Iraq? While people were dying, homes were burning in these countries by the armed forces of America, Saudi was had a good and deep relation with them. Why didn't Saudi boycott America that time? Why its talking about collision now? Why Saudi never raised voice against the mass killing and chaos Israel did in Palestine? Iran we stand with you!!!!

@MA Where was Pakistan when Iran was sanctioned by west?? India purchased oil from them ignoring sanctions. That's why Iran is now close to India.

Iran is more friendly with India than Pakistan... think about it

@Rashid this is controversial alliance. Pakistan will be just defame if join them

@HaiDer ali Iran oil was never cheaper. Can you let everyone know what was the price offered by Iran as compared to the rest. Oil was supplied by others even on deffered payment terms. Such facilities were never offered by Iran. Soft corner of Iran was onlly during Shah's time.

Will Saudi Royals change their views on Iran because Raheel Sharif ???

@Kiran than why Iran sign deal with India in its largest interest without paying any attention to Pakistan's concerns.

Why iran support Kalboshan an indian spy. etc etc

i am not against Iran . Iran is our brother country.. Irans should took step by keeping in view the intrest of pak as its muslim brother ...and support Pak against India & Israel .

Secondly i am sure this coalition is not against Iran ..

Scratch the Muslim ummah and its unity falls apart. The joke here is that if 3 people meet, there will be 2 groups !!!

@TD Pakistan never had big oil deals with Iran ever, we always imported cheap oil from Saudi. Saudi has various times given us free oil.
Free oil can be taken even when diehard sanctions are in place. Pakistan has always sided with Iran at UN and all international forums..

I don't believe in any peace and coalition after Saudi Arabia bombed Yemen.

@TD "Where was Pakistan when Iran was sanctioned by west?" Providing diplomatic cover, for your information. Who was the care taker of Iranian embassies during that time?

@zee "That's a commercial port, not a military alliance." And this is an alliance against terrorists, not against Iran. Quid pro quo.

I can just see this alliance getting involved in many conflicts around the region and using its influence to increase suffering. Woyld have been better to regorm the OIC and create a top level diplomatic team to resolve conflicts and bring nations together. You cannot expect a military alliance advocating peace. Unfortunately more doom and gloom. Pak army will be pulled into conflicts far and wide in alien terrains and environments. We are too obliged to the GCC countries to say anything.

@Nasir s. "I can just see this alliance getting involved in many conflicts around the region and using its influence to increase suffering. " Otherwise, the wold is a quiet and peaceful place. And suddenly there is this barbaric alliance that pop up to disturb the peace. Isn't it?

@TAriq i think it is not about Pakistan , Iran or any specific country. It is about all the Muslim countries combined. So, now you understand the concern?

We should do whatever is in the Interest of Pakistan and Iran should respect that. Iran should join the Muslim countries rather than funding proxy wars and divide Muslim Umma

Iran has been and still a big allay of India , did we ever showed any concern on diplomatic level , its purely Pakistan 's internal matter , Iran should not interfere.

@sabeeh ahmad Why there is so much talk of Muslim alliance. There is no such alliance like Christian alliance or Buddhist alliance. Time to get away from the religious divide.

Forget about Iran ! It's about Pakistan ! Things are not so simple ! When the head of the alliance is Pakistani, it will become mandatory for Pakistan to get involved in the issues of other countries with which Pakistan has nothing to do ! In case of any conflict, which to me is certain in the very near future, and that's why Pakistan is being dragged into it, Pakistan will surely use its military and other resources on safeguarding the interests of others rather than safeguarding its own interests ! This will leave us more vulnerable to the internal crisis that we are presently involved into and other external threats i.e. Indian / Israeli / American belligerence ! In such situation who will come then to save Pakistan ? Who is by the way controlling the oil output & prices ? Who wants Muslim countries to fight each other and die ? Who is wreaking havoc in the Middle east the the entire world ? Do I need to tell ?

If Iran can work with Russia, Syria and Labenon then why not pakistan with Muslim countries. Iran should not be worried about that

@Abbas Naqvi

I agree but so should Iran.

And I think Pakistan and Iran were much stronger partners before the mullahs took over Iran (and also before sectarian mullahs went on the rampage in Pakistan after Zia took over here).

Iran has to raise its voice for Kashmir and not harm Pakistan's interests.

But basically we have to get rid of these mulahs, they are bad news

Iran's concern is justified.

@Rashid ji.. the point of question is, if all Muslim countries were part of this group, including Iran, I think it's a great place to be. The concern is, if this group hurts fellow muslims, will it create another apprehensive neighbor for Pakistan? Has nothing to do with India or other countries.

Great to create a military coalition of countries ruled largely by dictators, some directly, some by remote.

once again we have entered afresh a new foreign conflicts. The fall out of previous one is still biting.

@Sallu Bhai Since you are not our policy maker nor are you qualified to have an idea what 'foreign policy' is, leave this matter for the experts who are taking care of our foreign policy.

@akshay Great comment.....thank you!

THANK YOU...

@Amir khan Iran has always used its own resources rather than relying on other countries. Certainly, Iran stands proud and tall amongst Muslim nations.