The recent visit of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to UAE is being considered significant amid the current tense regional situation. It is not merely a political event but also a notable step toward rapidly shifting political alignments in the Middle East. The visit took place at a time when war tensions, energy crises, and new defense partnerships are shaping global politics. During Prime Minister Modi’s visit to UAE. According to Indian government, strategic defense cooperation and agreements concerning oil reserves were concluded between India and UAE.
It is noteworthy that India desires a defense pact with UAE similar to those Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and the recent visit of Indian PM is an important step in that direction. It is no coincidence that a few days before Modi’s visit, an Israeli statement claimed that Netanyahu had made a secret trip to UAE during Israel-Iran war and met with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. However, UAE immediately denied Netanyahu’s visit, calling the Israeli claims misleading. UAE’s unequivocal denial reflects that Netanyahu attempted to exploit this alleged visit for political gain, crossing a red line and tarnishing UAE’s reputation. Israel aims to send a message to Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries that it has covert close ties with certain Arab states, intending to create divisions among Arab countries. By this action Israel wants to provoke Iran against UAE, and justify further attacks to increase UAE’s dependence on Israel. This illustrates Netanyahu’s willingness to sacrifice friendly countries for his personal interests.
The significance of Modi’s visit is evident from the warm reception he received, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed personally welcomed Indian Prime Minister at his plane’s door, embracing him a gesture beyond usual protocol. This visit occurred amid rising tensions between Iran and United States, with Gulf States seeking new defense alliances. India is using this situation to present itself as a balanced power, maintaining economic ties with Iran while seeking a defense pact with UAE similar to Pakistan-Saudi Arabia, prioritizing interests over ideology. India aims to secure its oil supply amid tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, and UAE has emerged as a reliable partner in this regard.
The balance of power in the Middle East is shifting, and Modi’s and Netanyahu’s visits to UAE are pieces in this changing geopolitical puzzle. A common feature of both visits is that UAE is considered a central partner in regional strategy, for India, it is a hub for energy and trade; for Israel, it is a strategic front against Iran. This situation is crucial for Pakistan. It should not be forgotten that over 1.7 million Pakistanis working in UAE, sending more than $7 billion annually in remittances back home. The collaboration of India and Israel with the UAE aims to create hostility against Pakistan and potentially destabilize its economy. During the U.S.-Iran war, UAE’s demand for repayment of over $3.5 billion in loans from Pakistan is seen as part of this broader scheme.
At a time when India-UAE defense relations are strengthening and Israel is expanding its influence in the Gulf, Pakistan needs to urgently review its foreign policy. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, who share personal friendly ties with UAE leaders, should immediately visit UAE to dispel misunderstandings arising from current tensions and provide clear assurances that Pakistan’s foreign policy does not act against UAE’s interests. This step will not only strengthen bilateral relations but also highlight Pakistan’s positive role in the region.
