ISLAMABAD: Recent developments indicate a emerging bifurcation in regionalsecurity architectures, with India, Israel, and the UAE forming closerstrategic coordination while Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and potentially Turkeyadvance their own defense framework. The BBC Urdu report, published onJanuary 21, 2026, questions if the India-UAE strategic defense partnershipannounced during UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s briefvisit to New Delhi serves as a counter to the Saudi-Pakistan pact, amidbroader realignments influenced by historical normalization efforts andcurrent geopolitical uncertainties.
The India-UAE defense engagement gained prominence with the signing of aLetter of Intent for strategic partnership during the UAE leader’s shortvisit, personally received by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Indianofficials described it as an extension of longstanding cooperation ratherthan a reactive measure. Analysts cited in the BBC piece note that thistiming coincides with the September 2025 Saudi-Pakistan Strategic MutualDefence Agreement, which includes a collective defense clause treatingaggression against one as against both.
Observers point to an informal axis involving Israel, India, and the UAE,bolstered by the 2020 Abraham Accords that normalized UAE-Israel relations.This grouping emphasizes technological, defense, and economic synergies,with India’s robust military procurement from Israel and UAE investmentsenhancing capabilities in maritime security and innovation. Commentators onsocial platforms and in regional media have described this as acapability-focused alignment countering perceived encroachments.
On the opposing side, the Saudi-Pakistan defense accord builds on decadesof military cooperation, providing Pakistan strategic depth through Saudifinancial and logistical support. Reports suggest Turkey is in advanceddiscussions to join this framework, potentially creating a trilateralarrangement combining Saudi resources, Pakistan’s nuclear deterrent, andTurkey’s NATO-standard military expertise and drone capabilities. Someanalysts informally label this an “Islamic NATO” aimed at greater autonomyfrom Western security structures.
Tensions between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, exacerbated by divergentapproaches in Yemen and other arenas, contribute to these divisions. TheBBC highlights views from experts like former Indian ambassadors K.C. Singhand Talmiz Ahmad, who see the India-UAE deal as reflecting rapidly evolvingGulf dynamics, with UAE diversifying partners amid strains with Riyadh andpro-Israel stances on issues like Somaliland recognition.
Indian academic Muhammad Mudthar Qamar from Jawaharlal Nehru Universityargues the alignments remain fluid and non-permanent, driven by leadershipegos and pragmatic interests rather than fixed rivalries. The UAE’s partialwithdrawal from Yemen signals reluctance for direct confrontation, yet thedefense diversification sends a political message to Saudi Arabia, Turkey,and Pakistan about reducing regional pressures through alternativepartnerships.
Broader implications involve nuclear-armed states on both sides, raisingstakes in deterrence calculations. India’s concerns stem from Pakistangaining additional patronage beyond China and Turkey, potentiallycomplicating South Asian security. Conversely, the emerging bloc offersPakistan leverage in its rivalry with India while allowing Saudi Arabia tohedge against uncertainties in US commitments.
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Economic and technological dimensions further distinguish the axes. TheIsrael-India-UAE partnership leverages innovation ecosystems, energy deals,and minilateral forums for stability and connectivity. In contrast, theSaudi-Pakistan-Turkey configuration focuses on financial interdependence,joint ventures, and shared Islamic world influence, though ideologicalcoherence varies.
Regional analysts caution that while these alignments appear informal, theyrisk heightening proxy tensions and fragmenting multilateral efforts.Diplomatic channels remain essential to manage miscalculations,particularly with ongoing conflicts and great power dynamics influencingoutcomes. The BBC notes that such shifts reflect pragmatic responses tothreats like Iran’s role and non-state actors, rather than purelyideological divides.
The situation continues to evolve, with high-level engagements andpotential inclusions shaping trajectories. Monitoring defense pacts andleadership interactions will determine if these axes harden into enduringstructures or adapt toward broader cooperation in a volatile landscape.
Source:https://www.bbc.com/urdu/articles/cj9ry8d83w9o
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