The recent escalation between Iran and Israel has once again highlighted the volatile fault lines of West Asia and South Asia, where shifting alliances and undercurrents of mistrust often shape geopolitical developments. One notable outcome of this conflict has been India’s public disassociation from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s (SCO) joint statement condemning the Israeli strike on Iranian targets. This position indicates a discernible tilt in New Delhi’s diplomatic posture that is now difficult to overlook.
For years, Indo-Iranian relations have been publicly presented as cooperative, particularly with the development of the Chabahar port. However, recent developments have cast a shadow over that narrative. Iran has faced significant losses in leadership due to highly precise and targeted strikes. While the origin of intelligence enabling such accuracy remains speculative, the trust deficit now emerging suggests that Tehran may be re-evaluating the depth and direction of some of its strategic partnerships.
This moment also underscores a recurring pattern in the region: the tendency of external interests and intelligence footprints to entrench themselves quietly across neighboring countries. History has shown how nations sometimes overlook or underestimate the broader implications of allowing foreign strategic influence within their borders. Over time, these decisions often lead to unintended consequences, both in terms of national security and regional cohesion.
The broader region—including Iran, Afghanistan, and other Muslim-majority neighbors—continues to face challenges stemming from misinformation, mistrust, and the historical manipulation of narratives. These divisions have often been amplified by ideological agendas, both domestic and external, that thrive on perpetuating enmity and suspicion. As recent developments show, unity among regional actors remains fragile and susceptible to external pressures.
In light of this, Pakistan must continue to pursue a well-considered and balanced approach to the evolving regional dynamics. With internal stability intact and a resilient posture on the diplomatic front, Pakistan has so far navigated the turbulence with prudence. However, regional instability—especially if prolonged—could give rise to indirect threats, and nations must remain alert to all possibilities.
While celebrating recent strategic advantages may offer short-term satisfaction, long-term national interests require a focus on regional peace, economic cooperation, and neighborly engagement. Even after this conflict subsides, geographical realities will remain unchanged. Iran, Afghanistan, and India will continue to border Pakistan. Therefore, diplomatic strategies must be anchored in realism, foresight, and a clear understanding of long-term geopolitical consequences.
It is also important to recognize the need for broader regional introspection. The current moment presents an opportunity for countries across South and West Asia to reassess the cost of prolonged rivalries and to consider the dividends of cooperation. A conflict-ridden neighborhood benefits no one in the long run.
As the international order shifts and new power centers emerge, transactional alliances may grow—but regional trust must be rebuilt through sincerity and mutual respect. The region’s future depends not on how bold nations are in confrontation, but how wise they are in choosing dialogue over discord.
—The writer is a leading industrialist based in Karachi. He regularly contributes to national press.
