UAE-India Ties Soar, Pakistan Airport Deal Grounded After Sheikh Mohammed's Visit

• UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's brief India visit led to the release of 900 Indian prisoners, signaling strengthened ties.
• The UAE unexpectedly scrapped its plan to operate Islamabad International Airport, causing concern in Pakistan's leadership.
• The withdrawal, officially due to 'loss of interest,' comes amid Pakistan's deepening defense alignment with Saudi Arabia and efforts to form an 'Islamic NATO' with Turkey.
• This decision highlights growing strains between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, with ripple effects on South Asian geopolitics.
• The collapse of the airport deal signifies an erosion of trust in Pakistan-UAE relations, despite historical aviation cooperation.

Why It Matters: UAE strengthens India ties while withdrawing from Pakistan's airport deal amid shifting regional alliances.