THIS is apropos Pervez Hoodbhoy’s article ‘Why remain a petro-puppet?’(June 10). The writer gives several reasons for Pakistan to stay neutral in the sectarian divide in the Middle East.

Terrorism in Pakistan originated from our links to the Saudi-backed Taliban in Afghanistan in the 1980s.

It seems Pakistan has invested too soon in the alliance by agreeing to send retired general Raheel Sharif before the terms of references of the alliance were discussed and settled. Unfortunately, continuing on the Saudi side of the Muslim divide will only help raise serious challenges in fighting terrorism at home.

When US President Donald Trump visited Riyadh recently, the anti-Iran design of the alliance became clear, alongside a huge arms deal between the US and Saudi Arabia, as a green light to engage in a direct conflict with Iran.

However, Qatar’s apparent disagreement has weakened the alliance even before it could take off. It’s ironic that the alliance of Muslim countries couldn’t start with an agreement even among Gulf Cooperation Countries.

Turkey and Iran, the strongest militaries in the region other than Pakistan, have openly supported Qatar.The crisis could be controlled if Pakistan chooses neutrality.

Sulaiman Malik
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, June 23rd, 2017