Image Credit: X account @DrSJaishankar
Saudi Foreign Minister Engages India and Pakistan on De-escalation Efforts
Amid rising military tensions between India and Pakistan, Saudi Arabia has stepped into the diplomatic fray, calling for restraint and dialogue. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held phone conversations on Saturday with India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to discuss urgent measures to de-escalate the conflict.
According to an official statement, Faisal reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s “close and balanced relations” with both India and Pakistan and emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to the “security and stability of the region.” The discussions primarily focused on curbing the ongoing military confrontations and restoring calm across the Line of Control and the broader region.
Balanced Diplomacy Amid Escalating Conflict
The outreach comes at a critical juncture, with India retaliating to a series of coordinated drone attacks, artillery shelling, and attempted infiltrations from Pakistan. As tensions continue to mount, Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic engagement signals a growing concern within the Gulf region over the possibility of a larger armed conflict between two nuclear-armed neighbors.
By simultaneously engaging both New Delhi and Islamabad, Riyadh has positioned itself as a neutral and constructive player seeking to stabilize the region. The Saudi Foreign Ministry reiterated that both countries are valued partners and that peace is in the shared interest of all regional stakeholders.
India and Pakistan Yet to Commit to Talks
While both Indian and Pakistani officials have acknowledged the calls, there has been no official commitment from either side regarding a ceasefire or initiation of formal talks. India maintains that its military actions are targeted counter-terror operations and not acts of aggression, while Pakistan continues to claim it is defending its sovereignty.
Saudi Arabia’s efforts reflect broader international concern, with other global powers also calling for restraint and urging both sides to seek diplomatic solutions over armed conflict. Whether these initiatives translate into concrete de-escalation remains to be seen.
