Why The Gulf Became a New Arena for India and Pakistan's Rivalry

As India and Pakistan deepen their roles in the Gulf’s evolving security order, their decades-old rivalry is spilling into what may prove to be its most consequential external theatre yet.

But while New Delhi has always had a more economic, diaspora-driven presence in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, Islamabad has been able to carve out an important mediatory role with Saudi Arabia’s support.

Led by Field Marshal Asim Munir, Pakistan has been facilitating a peace dealbetween the US and Iran after hosting talks between the two sides in Islamabad last month.

During Munir’s visit to Tehran this weekend, developments gathered momentum, as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio talked of “slight progress” and President Donald Trump said both sides are edging closer to an agreement.