ISLAMABAD: Pakistan must employ its political and diplomatic resources to help de-escalate the expanding conflict in the Gulf region and facilitate a return to negotiations, Sardar Masood Khan, the former Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, China, and the United Nations, and former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, stated.

According to President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Sardar Masood Khan highlighted the complexity of the situation due to multiple countries and fronts being involved in the conflict. Of particular concern was a reported attack near Makkah, which he described as sacred to Muslims, emphasizing the need for careful establishment of the circumstances and responsibilities surrounding the incident to prevent further escalation.

Sardar Masood Khan pointed out the increased vulnerability of Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states as the strategic framework of the war broadened. This situation has raised critical questions about the responsibilities and mechanisms of the Makkah Defence Alliance. The Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, which includes Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye, stipulates collective defense measures against armed attacks on any member.

He outlined two main roles for Pakistan in the current situation. The first is a diplomatic role, where Pakistan should leverage its close ties with Gulf states and other key countries, such as China, to mediate and encourage a return to negotiations. He emphasized the need for Pakistan to exhaust its political and administrative resources to achieve progress in de-escalation efforts.

The second role involves military and strategic commitments under bilateral and trilateral defense agreements with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye. While Pakistan has been providing defense support to Saudi Arabia, including personnel and advanced military equipment, Sardar Masood Khan noted that the operational framework regarding the Houthis remains undefined.

He further cautioned against the potential expansion of the conflict into a broader war involving the United States, citing the significant financial and political implications for Washington. He concluded by stressing the importance of sustained diplomacy, restraint, and de-escalation to prevent further widening of the conflict.