A few weeks back the Pakistani parliament respectively declined the Saudi request to join its coalition against the Houthi rebels in Yemen. Although, the Pakistani parliament reiterated its pledge to defend the Saudi sovereignty against any aggressor, the Arabs were not pleased. Immediately after the parliamentary decision, the UAE's Foreign Minister lashed out at Pakistan's decision and promised severe consequences.
Amongst a myriad of terrible foreign policy decisions, the Pakistani position was a sensible one. For one of the few times in its history, Pakistan debunked the impression that its military was for hire by the highest bidder. By refusing assistance, Pakistan also showed to the Iranians that its interests did not always coincide with those of Arabs. In doing that, Pakistan also diffused any chances of Sunni-Shia sectarian conflict from being played out in Pakistani cities. However, the most important benefit from staying aloof was that Pakistan showed to the world that it was above taking sides in intra-muslim disputes. This precedent, if followed upon, could improve Pakistan's image all over the world.
Amongst a myriad of terrible foreign policy decisions, the Pakistani position was a sensible one. For one of the few times in its history, Pakistan debunked the impression that its military was for hire by the highest bidder. By refusing assistance, Pakistan also showed to the Iranians that its interests did not always coincide with those of Arabs. In doing that, Pakistan also diffused any chances of Sunni-Shia sectarian conflict from being played out in Pakistani cities. However, the most important benefit from staying aloof was that Pakistan showed to the world that it was above taking sides in intra-muslim disputes. This precedent, if followed upon, could improve Pakistan's image all over the world.
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