Pakistan's Gulf Dilemma: Balancing Saudi-UAE Rivalry Amid Shifting Loyalties

• Pakistan faces intense pressure to choose sides in the escalating Saudi Arabia-UAE rivalry, impacting its strategic, defence, and financial ties.
• Despite a defence pact, Pakistan has not openly backed Saudi Arabia on the ground in Yemen, opting for a 'soft stand' to maintain neutrality.
• Pakistan is reportedly finalizing a $1.5bn arms deal with Sudan, aligning with Ankara and Riyadh against UAE-backed forces.
• Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed 'complete solidarity' with Saudi Arabia, but concrete actions have been limited.
• Saudi Arabia and Pakistan are discussing converting a $2 billion loan into a JF-17 fighter jet deal, indicating deepening military cooperation.

Why It Matters: Pakistan struggles to navigate the Saudi-UAE power struggle, risking UAE ties while leaning towards Saudi Arabia.